Shoulder · Joints, stiffness & other
Capsular release / manipulation
Frozen Shoulder / Shoulder Stiffness — Capsular Release, Lysis of Adhesions, and Manipulation
The condition
The shoulder joint is surrounded by a flexible lining called the capsule. In some cases, such as frozen shoulder or after an injury/surgery, scar tissue forms and the capsule becomes inflamed, thick, and tight. The result is pain and a loss of motion that has not improved enough with therapy.
The surgery
This is a minimally invasive, typically outpatient surgery done through small incisions with a camera and small instruments. The tight capsule and scar tissue are released, and the shoulder is then gently moved through its full range while you are asleep (manipulation). Nothing is repaired, so there is nothing to protect afterward. The final plan is determined during surgery.
Recovery at a glance
- Sling
- None. Use the arm normally for light activities from day 1; there are no motion restrictions.
- Therapy
- Starts within 24 hours, with daily visits the first week and supervised therapy for at least 3 weeks. Stretching at home several times a day is what keeps your motion.
- Daily life
- Desk work often within the first week. Strengthening is added between 2 and 6 weeks and never replaces stretching. No driving while taking narcotic pain medication.
- Work & sports
- Full release typically at 6–12 weeks. Heavy labor and sports may take up to 4 months.
A general guide. Your restrictions and timeline may change based on what is found and done at surgery.
Risks & benefits
Benefits: Most patients regain motion and have less pain, provided therapy and stretching are kept up. Risks are uncommon and include infection, blood clots, stiffness coming back, a fracture or dislocation during the manipulation (rare), temporary nerve irritation, injury to nearby structures (such as nerves, blood vessels, or cartilage), stiffness, persistent pain, and the need for further surgery. These will be reviewed with you in detail before surgery.
Patient Surgical Information
Open, save or print. Bring your questions to your pre-op visit.
Before & after every surgery