Adhesive Capsulitis — Arthroscopic Capsular Release

Dr. Michael C. Fu MD (Hospital for Special Surgery) · Michael C. Fu, MD, MHS

Weight-Bearing

N/A

Key Restrictions

Immediate aggressive PROM and capsular stretching from day 1; if DCE: no horizontal adduction for 8 wks; if biceps tenodesis: no active biceps flexion or eccentric loading for 6 wks

Timeline & Phases

Phase I (0-4 wks): immediate aggressive PROM + capsular stretching, sling comfort only -> Phase II (4-8 wks): advance Therabands + continue capsular stretching -> Phase III (8-16 wks): advance strengthening, full activity after 12 wks

Notes

Aggressive early ROM is hallmark post-capsular release; concomitant procedure precautions (DCE, biceps tenodesis) modify protocol

Surgeon / Author

Michael C. Fu, MD, MHS