Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
-
Chat With Us
+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Capsular Shrinkage
Shoulder Capsule Shrinkage
Capsular shrinkage, also called thermal capsulorrhaphy, is a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure performed to stabilise an unstable shoulder joint. During surgery, a special probe that delivers controlled radiofrequency energy is applied to the loose capsule. This energy alters the collagen structure within the capsule, causing it to contract and tighten, which helps restore stability to the joint.
The shoulder joint is made up of the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). The head of the humerus sits in a shallow socket of the scapula called the glenoid. While this design allows for the wide range of motion the shoulder is known for, it also makes the joint more prone to instability. The capsule—a flexible, elastic covering around the joint—supports the ligaments, cartilage, and muscles, but if it becomes excessively loose, the shoulder may develop multidirectional instability, leading to repeated dislocations.
When physiotherapy and other conservative treatments are no longer effective, capsular shrinkage can be considered as a surgical option to reduce capsular laxity, minimise dislocations, and provide long-term shoulder stability.
Physiotherapy Prior to Capsular Shrinkage
Before undergoing capsular shrinkage, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing symptoms, strengthening the shoulder, and maintaining independence. Conservative management is always attempted first, and surgery is considered only when these options are exhausted. Pre-surgical physiotherapy may include:
- Cryotherapy to reduce pain and inflammation
- Pain management techniques
- Strengthening programmes to support the shoulder joint
- Stability training to limit dislocations
- Education and advice, including preparation for post-surgical management
Symptoms Following Capsular Shrinkage
After the procedure, your shoulder will be placed in a sling to protect the repair and aid recovery. It is normal to experience some side effects from both surgery and anaesthetic, including:
- Pain Swelling
- Stiffness
- Bruising
- Temporary numbness (which usually resolves after the anaesthetic wears off)
Physiotherapy Following Capsular Shrinkage
A structured rehabilitation programme is vital after surgery to ensure the shoulder heals properly and regains stability, movement, and strength. Acephysiosports.com will provide a detailed assessment, set personal goals, and design a phased programme.
Weeks 1–3
Focus: protect the repair, manage symptoms, and begin gentle movement.
- Pain and wound management
- Cryotherapy and electrotherapy
- Postural education
- Sling mobility training
- Gentle pendular exercises
- Passive and assisted range of motion
- Scapular stability exercises
- Elbow, wrist, and hand mobility
- Home exercises and education
Weeks 4–6
Focus: restore mobility and begin strengthening.
- Active and assisted shoulder exercises
- Scapular stabilisation throughout movement
- Rotator cuff and shoulder strengthening
- Joint mobilisation and capsule stretching
- Soft tissue release
- Proprioceptive training to improve control
Weeks 7–12
Focus: progress to full movement, strength, and functional activities.
- Full range of motion exercises
- Advanced scapular stabilisation
- Shoulder strengthening and endurance training
- Joint mobilisation and soft tissue release
- Proprioceptive and perturbation exercises
- Sport-specific and functional activity integration
Weeks 12+
Focus: return to sport, heavy activity, and long-term independence.
- Advanced strengthening and endurance
- Sport-specific training
- Functional training for work and daily life
- Long-term management strategies to maintain progress
Weeks 12+
Capsular shrinkage (thermal capsulorrhaphy) is an arthroscopic procedure used to tighten a stretched shoulder capsule in patients with recurrent dislocations or severe instability. By shrinking the capsule, the shoulder gains greater stability and is less prone to future dislocations. Physiotherapy is essential both before and after surgery to reduce symptoms, restore mobility, strengthen the shoulder, and support a safe return to normal activities. With a structured rehabilitation programme from Physio.co.uk, patients can achieve full functional recovery and long-term stability.
To arrange an assessment with AcephysioSports.com, please contact us or call +65 8153 5374. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online today!
Get treated today!
We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.
Find out more »
We are open...
Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
Find your nearest clinic
Acephysio Sports have clinics located throughout the Singapore.
Find out more »
