Efficacy of Spencer’s Technique in Adhesive Capsulitis: A Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: Adhesive capsulitis, characterised by escalating pain and gradual joint mobility restriction of uncertain origin, poses significant challenges in daily activities over months to years. Among numerous treatment modalities, the Spencer technique emerges as a distinctive and highly promising approach, offering notable improvements in pain relief, reduction of disability, and enhancement of range of motion for individuals afflicted with this condition. Aim: To provide a comprehensive summary of the current body of literature pertaining to the efficacy of Spencer’s technique in patients diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis. Materials and Methods: A total of 2,788 articles were initially collected from electronic search engines like PubMed and Google Scholar. Studies incorporating individuals aged 30 years or older, diagnosed with frozen shoulder, and utilising Spencer’s technique as an intervention were included. However, only 10 relevant articles were included in this review and analysed further, following removal of duplication. Results: While most the studies demonstrated significant findings of Spencer’s technique on ROM (p<0.05), they presented diverse results concerning pain levels and SPADI scores. Also, 3 articles have indicated that Mulligan mobilisation exhibits greater efficacy compared to the Spencer technique in adhesive capsulitis patients. Conclusion: Spencer’s technique demonstrates significant differences in pre-post outcomes versus conventional methods but lacks superiority over Mulligan mobilisation, supported by moderate evidence. Additionally, other manual therapy techniques’ efficacy remains scarce or limited in comparison.