Static stretching therapy with traction in adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the efficacy of shoulder traction therapy in patients with adhesive capsulitis. Method: Thirty four patients with adhesive capsulitis(39 shoulders) were admitted to the study. The patients were randomly allocated to receive traction therapy for 3 weeks and physical therapy for 2 weeks. The degree of pain at rest and pain with activity were evaluated using visual analog scale (VAS). The active motions of the affected shoulder were measured with a goniometer in supine position. All patients were evaluated ability to perform certain activities of daily living (ADL) for the assessment of shoulder functions. Measurements were done before and after treatment and at 8 weeks. Results: No significant side effects were seen in either group. Statistically significant improvement in all ranges of motion, VAS pain and ADL scores were found after the treatment in both groups. No difference was observed between the two groups in ADL and pain scores, flexion and internal rotation. However, active ranges of abduction and external rotation were associated a more with significant improvement in the traction group than the physical therapy group (p<0.01, p<0.01 respectively). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that static stretching therapy with traction is an effective and safe method in the treatment of adhesive capsulitis.