Dr. Ronak Patel of Oak Brook OrthoLazer comments on the use of laser therapy to treat Adhesive Capsulitis:

“Adhesive capsulitis has two major clinical components: inflammation of the capsule and stiffness of the shoulder. Historically, corticosteroid injections into the glenohumeral joint provided relief of the inflammation of the capsule and physical therapy would provide the relief of the stiffness. While this treatment protocol continues to be an option, there are some concerns with intra-articular corticosteroid injections. These include: the inherent risks of intra-articular corticosteroids in the shoulder, patient concerns with injections and adverse reactions to injections, patient compliance after injections, and possibility of operative intervention in the same joint after a corticosteroid injection. In addition, adhesive capsulitis is known to have a predilection in patients with diabetes mellitus as well as other hormonal issues. The use of corticosteroid injections in these patients can often alter blood sugar levels and may disturb other hormonal balances.

We have shifted our protocol to begin with laser therapy as a treatment for the inflammation of the capsule and then continuing with physical therapy for the stiffness.  This has dramatically decreased our use of intra-articular corticosteroid injections, while maintaining efficacy of our treatment. Furthermore, patients have been receptive to the idea of a noninvasive approach.”

Protocol details:

• Begins with two weeks of laser therapy (2-3 times per week) with treatment directed at the entire capsule, including the anterior, posterior and inferior portions.
• Patients begin physical therapy after pain and inflammation have been reduced and can tolerate mobilization of capsule better.
• Continue laser therapy in combination with P.T.
• A full course of 12 sessions of laser therapy is typically required.

Want to learn more? Contact Lisa Moore at Lmoore@ortholazer.com