Improved range of motion after manipulation under anesthesia versus physiotherapy for stage two frozen shoulder: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

BackgroundFrozen shoulder (FS) is a common cause of shoulder pain and stiffness. Conservative treatment is sufficient for the majority of patients with recovery of shoulder function at long term. Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) is known as a well-established treatment option if conservative treatment fails. It is unknown whether MUA does indeed shorten the duration of symptoms or leads to a superior outcome compared to conservative treatment. The objective of the current trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of MUA followed by a physiotherapy program (PT) compared to a PT program alone in patients with stage two FS. MethodsA prospective, single center randomized controlled trial was performed. Patients between 18 and 70 years old with a stage two FS were deemed eligible if an initial course of conservative treatment, consisting of physiotherapy and an intra-articular corticosteroid infiltration was considered unsatisfactory. Patients were randomized and data was collected with an online data management platform (CASTOR). MUA was performed by a single surgeon under interscalene block and an intensive physiotherapy treatment protocol was started within 4 hours after MUA. In the PT group patients were referred to instructed physiotherapist, and treatment was guided by tissue irritability. The primary outcome was the SPADI score. Secondary outcomes were pain, range of motion, OSS, quality of life and ability to work. ResultsIn total, 82 patients were included, 42 in the PT group and 40 in the MUA group. There was a significant improvement in SPADI, OSS, pain, range of motion and quality of life in both groups at 1 year follow-up. SPADI scores at three months were significantly improved in favor of MUA. MUA showed a significant bigger increase in anteflexion and abduction compared to PT at all points of follow-up. No significant differences between both groups were found for all other parameters. No fractures, dislocations or brachial plexus injuries occurred in this trial. ConclusionMUA in stage 2 FS can be considered safe and results in a faster recovery of range of motion and improved functional outcome, measured with SPADI scores, compared to PT alone at short term. After 1 year, except for slightly better range of motion scores for MUA, the result of MUA is equal to PT.