Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about numerous changes in our daily lives, including disruptions to regular healthcare services. However, healthcare professionals have risen to the occasion, finding innovative solutions to continue delivering quality care. One notable example is the successful implementation of rehabilitation protocols for adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, with minimal clinic visits and active exercises.

Understanding Adhesive Capsulitis:
Adhesive capsulitis is a condition characterized by shoulder joint pain and stiffness, resulting in limited range of motion. It primarily affects individuals aged 40 to 60 and can be triggered by factors such as immobility, trauma, or underlying medical conditions. The condition typically progresses through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing.

The Role of Rehabilitation:
Traditionally, rehabilitation for adhesive capsulitis involved frequent visits to clinics for passive treatments like manual therapy or corticosteroid injections. These visits were essential for monitoring progress and adjusting treatment plans accordingly. However, the COVID-19 pandemic required the adoption of alternative methods to minimize the risk of exposure while still ensuring effective rehabilitation.

Minimal Clinic Visits:
In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, healthcare providers implemented a new approach of limited clinic visits. Patients would initially visit the clinic for an accurate diagnosis and personalized rehabilitation program. Subsequent visits would be strategically scheduled to assess progress, reinforce exercise techniques, and make necessary adjustments. This minimized the risk of viral exposure while maintaining appropriate medical supervision.

Active Exercises for Strength and Mobility:
With fewer clinic visits, the focus shifted towards empowering patients to take an active role in their recovery. Physical therapists utilized various methods, including online platforms or limited one-on-one visits, either in clinics or at patients’ homes. These protocols centered around strengthening affected muscles and achieving functional goals, improving shoulder flexibility, range of motion, and alleviating night pain. Our experienced physiotherapist, Dr. Amar, has developed specific treatment techniques for such minimal visit protocols.

Home Exercise Programs:
Rehabilitation protocols heavily relied on patients’ active participation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to home exercise programs. These programs incorporated progressive resistance exercises using resistance bands or weights, facilitating movement and allowing the body to adapt. Patients received education on correct exercise techniques and detailed instructions, illustrations, or videos to ensure proper execution.

The Results:
Surprisingly, these new rehabilitation protocols have produced excellent results for patients with adhesive capsulitis. The combination of minimal clinic visits and active exercises not only addressed pandemic concerns but also provided patients with the tools for long-term recovery. Patients reported reduced pain, increased range of motion, and improved functionality, all in the comfort and safety of their homes.

Conclusion:
The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated adaptations and innovations in healthcare delivery. In the case of adhesive capsulitis, rehabilitation protocols featuring minimal clinic visits and active exercises have proven highly effective. By empowering patients to actively engage in their recovery and equipping them with necessary tools, successful outcomes are achievable even in challenging times. These newfound approaches to rehabilitation, born out of necessity, may bring about future advancements in the field, which focuses on active exercises and minimal clinic visits. With ongoing advancements in telehealth and the integration of technology in healthcare,  arthrokinetic rehabilitation has the potential to revolutionize the field of rehabilitation, offering convenient and effective solutions for patients not only during the COVID-19 era but beyond.