Which motion is especially limited in adhesive capsulitis?

Prepare for the APEA Management Orthopedics Test using flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations for effective learning. Gear up for your test now!

Multiple Choice

Which motion is especially limited in adhesive capsulitis?

Explanation:
Adhesive capsulitis causes fibrosis and contracture of the glenohumeral joint capsule, leading to a stiff shoulder. The anterior capsule and the rotator interval tend to tighten, which specifically limits the ability to rotate the arm outward. Because external rotation requires the capsule and associated ligaments to lengthen to allow the humeral head to rotate, this motion ends up most severely restricted. Other movements—like abduction or flexion—can be affected as the condition progresses, but external rotation is typically the most limited early and throughout the course.

Adhesive capsulitis causes fibrosis and contracture of the glenohumeral joint capsule, leading to a stiff shoulder. The anterior capsule and the rotator interval tend to tighten, which specifically limits the ability to rotate the arm outward. Because external rotation requires the capsule and associated ligaments to lengthen to allow the humeral head to rotate, this motion ends up most severely restricted. Other movements—like abduction or flexion—can be affected as the condition progresses, but external rotation is typically the most limited early and throughout the course.

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