# Correlation Between Non-Contrast Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings and Clinical Assessment in Patients With Adhesive Capsulitis

## TL;DR

This study explores how MRI findings relate to mobility issues in patients with frozen shoulder, finding that capsular thickening correlates with reduced movement.

## Contribution

The study identifies a specific correlation between MRI-detected capsular thickening and functional limitations in adhesive capsulitis.

## Key findings

- Capsular thickening in the axillary recess correlates with reduced shoulder elevation and lateral rotation.
- Hypersignal in multiple quadrants does not correlate with functional limitations.
- Non-contrast MRI can help diagnose adhesive capsulitis by identifying structural changes.

## Abstract

Introduction

Adhesive capsulitis, or "frozen shoulder," is characterized by pain and significant functional limitation. It predominantly affects individuals over 40 years old and is commonly associated with systemic conditions such as diabetes mellitus and thyroid disorders. Imaging studies, particularly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may help understand structural changes linked to mobility restrictions.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed patients clinically diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis between 2017 and 2019. All patients underwent non-contrast MRI on a 1.5T scanner. Radiological findings correlated with shoulder range-of-motion deficits, including capsular thickening in the axillary recess and hypersignal in multiple quadrants.

Results

Capsular thickening in the axillary recess showed a significant negative correlation with elevation (r = -0.42; p = 0.003) and lateral rotation (r = -0.38; p = 0.008). However, hypersignal in multiple quadrants did not correlate statistically with functional limitations.

Conclusion

Non-contrast MRI effectively identified capsular changes associated with mobility restrictions in adhesive capsulitis, aiding in diagnosis and management. Further studies with larger samples and longitudinal follow-ups are needed to validate these findings.