Complications
Caution should be exercised when manipulating patients with previous surgical repairs of the affected shoulder as well as those with poor bone quality. Gentle, active, assisted range of motion exercises are safer in this patient population.
Release of the inferior recess of the joint capsule can place the axillary nerve at risk, especially when using a thermal ablator for capsular release. Some authors recommend avoiding release of the inferior recess for this reason.[8]
Adhesive capsulitis is a self-limiting disease. However, some patients will not have resolution of symptoms despite appropriate treatment. Patients with diabetes, and those who undergo shoulder surgery, may suffer a prolonged course. However, very few patients will have persistent symptoms that are severe enough to limit activities of daily living.
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