Which motion is especially limited in adhesive capsulitis?

Which motion is especially limited in adhesive capsulitis?

• A. External rotation
• B. Internal rotation
• C. Abduction
• D. Flexion

Answer: (A)

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.