The Use of Occupation-Based Treatment With a Person Who Has Shoulder Adhesive Capsulitis: A Case Report

Abstract

This article describes a case report of the occupational therapy management of a 53-year-old woman diagnosed with primary shoulder adhesive capsulitis. The occupation-based interventions are described through the framework of occupation-as-means. Compensatory occupation, preparatory methods, and purposeful activities are demonstrated as being critical to minimizing connective tissue deformation associated with this condition. This case report indicates that occupation-based intervention should be initiated as soon as a diagnosis is identified to prevent the downward spiral of forced disuse associated with the affected upper extremity. As illustrated by the case report, occupation-based treatment that was provided in a timely manner immediately decreased pain, improved range and quality of motion, and enhanced occupational performance.