Effect of Capsular Release in the Treatment of Shoulder Stiffness Concomitant With Rotator Cuff Repair Diabetes as a Predisposing Factor Associated With Treatment Outcome

Background:In spite of the high prevalence of shoulder stiffness during rotator cuff repair, optimal management remains unclear.Purpose:To identify the effect of capsular release during rotator cuff repair on the outcomes of patients with both shoulder stiffness and a rotator cuff tear, based on subgroup analyses.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:Forty-nine consecutive patients (mean age, 61.5 ± 8.3 years) were enrolled who underwent arthroscopic repair of a small- to large-sized full-thickness rotator cuff tear and manipulation for concomitant shoulder stiffness (passive forward flexion ≤120°, external rotation at the side ≤45°). The first 21 consecutive patients underwent manipulation alone to treat stiffness; the second 28 consecutive patients underwent capsular release with manipulation. Among the 49 patients, 25 showed severe stiffness (forward flexion ≤100°, external rotation at the side ≤30°; 11 in the first series and 14 in the second series), and 15 had diabetes mellitus (30...