Article

Frozen shoulder syndrome remains largely of unknown etiology and selecting the best evidence-based practice remains a challenge for physiotherapists.
The objective for this review was to explore existing studies from January 2000 to September 2009 in order to highlight optimal physiotherapy interventions for the treatment of frozen shoulder syndrome. A search of five databases was performed using the relevant search terms frozen shoulder, adhesive capsulitis, physiotherapy, physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Five papers were selected for review and variations in quality scores were observed. Results showed that mobilization techniques, both with and without exercise, were effective in improving shoulder range of movement and functional ability. High-grade, end-range mobilizations and mobilizations with movement had the best outcomes. Supervised neglect was shown to be favourable over intense physiotherapy in achieving near pain free function at 24 months. Finally, deep heating with stretching was superior to superficial heating with stretching and to stretching alone, in terms of shoulder range of movement and function.
Conclusions: Although results provide support for a range of treatment strategies, the methodological quality is variable and firm conclusions are difficult to establish. Until an increase in high-quality studies with similar interventions and outcome measures exist, comparisons are not possible and identifying the best evidence-based practice will remain problematic within the musculoskeletal physiotherapy field.

Langue : ANGLAIS