Capsular Constraint Mechanism
Overview[edit | edit source]
The concept of Capsular Constrained Mechanism can be applied to a tight join capsule of the shoulder where the humeral head translates in the direction opposite to that of the capsular tightness.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Mobilization for a stiff or restricted shoulder traditionally follows Kaltenborns' Concave-Convex rule which states that when a convex surface moves over a concave surface the direction of glide or arthrokinematic movement must be opposite to that of the osteokinematic movements. Taking the example of frozen shoulder, capsular pattern restriction is seen with external rotation maximally restricted.This would need an anterior glide to improve the restriction and range. However based on the capsule constrained mechanism the capsular restriction is at the anterior aspect hence rather than an anterior glide a posterior glide would rather strecth the thight capsule and s hence indicated.
Application[edit | edit source]
A tight capsule can cause the humeral head to translate in a direction opposite to that of the area of tightness
