What finding would support the diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis rather than subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS)?

What finding would support the diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis rather than subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS)?

• A. Consistent pain with overhead activities
• B. Restricted passive range of motion
• C. Positive Neer's test
• D. Increased strength in shoulder flexion

Answer: (B)

A finding that strongly supports the diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, is restricted passive range of motion. In adhesive capsulitis, there is a significant loss of both active and passive range of motion due to the capsular stiffness and inflammation associated with the condition. Patients often report difficulty with both active movements and when an examiner attempts to mobilize the shoulder passively. In contrast, subacromial impingement syndrome primarily presents with pain during specific movements, particularly overhead activities, but passive range of motion is generally preserved. While there may be some tightness or discomfort, the hallmark of SIS is that the passive range of motion remains more intact compared to adhesive capsulitis, where it is markedly diminished. Hence, the presence of restricted passive range of motion is a critical distinguishing factor indicating adhesive capsulitis over subacromial impingement syndrome.

A finding that strongly supports the diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, is restricted passive range of motion. In adhesive capsulitis, there is a significant loss of both active and passive range of motion due to the capsular stiffness and inflammation associated with the condition. Patients often report difficulty with both active movements and when an examiner attempts to mobilize the shoulder passively.

In contrast, subacromial impingement syndrome primarily presents with pain during specific movements, particularly overhead activities, but passive range of motion is generally preserved. While there may be some tightness or discomfort, the hallmark of SIS is that the passive range of motion remains more intact compared to adhesive capsulitis, where it is markedly diminished. Hence, the presence of restricted passive range of motion is a critical distinguishing factor indicating adhesive capsulitis over subacromial impingement syndrome.