In 2020, randomized controlled trial conducted by Jorat et al., the incidence of AC following pacemaker implantation was investigated. Adhesive capsulitis (AC), characterized by a gradual painful loss of active and passive range of motion in the shoulder joint, can lead to disabilities such as work absenteeism, reduced leisure time, and frequent healthcare visits. The study also evaluated the effectiveness of physical therapy and exercise education in preventing AC after pacemaker implantation.

The study enrolled 62 pacemaker candidates who exhibited no shoulder pain and had no motion limitations prior to enrollment. These patients were randomly assigned to two groups after pacemaker implantation: group A (n = 28) received physical therapy, while group B (n = 34) did not receive any specific intervention. The incidence of AC was assessed in both groups after a four-month period.

The study included a total of 62 patients, with a mean age of 63.2 ± 12.1 years in group A and 67.1 ± 17.6 years in group B. There was no significant difference in age between the two groups. After 16 weeks, 11 patients (17.7%) were diagnosed with AC. Among them, two patients belonged to group A, while nine patients were from group B. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant difference in AC incidence between the two groups (P = .004).

This study reveals that the incidence of AC following pacemaker implantation is 17.7%. Notably, the implementation of exercise education and physical therapy significantly reduced the occurrence of AC in patients after pacemaker implantation. These findings highlight the potential benefits of proactive interventions, such as physical therapy and exercise education, in preventing AC and improving patient outcomes post pacemaker implantation.

Reference: Jorat, M. V., Namayandeh, S. M., Mehdipour Namdar, Z., & Aslani, A. (2020). Prevention of adhesive capsulitis following pacemaker implantation: A randomized controlled study. Pacing and Clinical Electrophysiology, 43(9), 1000-1003.