Comparison of Clinical Test Findings and Arthroscopic Findings in Frozen Shoulder: A Scoping Review

Purpose and Scope This scoping review aims to map and synthesize the existing body of literature exploring the relationship between physical/clinical examination findings and arthroscopic observations in patients with Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis). While physical examination is the clinical cornerstone for diagnosis—typically focusing on global restrictions in active and passive range of motion (ROM)—there is a recognized diagnostic gap. Current evidence suggests a potential lack of high predictive value in these clinical tests when compared to the "gold standard" of arthroscopy. This review will specifically investigate how clinical markers (such as the Coracoid Pain Test and specific ROM patterns) correlate with intra-articular pathological changes (such as capsular thickening, synovitis, and fibrosis of the rotator interval). Methodology Following the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis and the PCC (Population, Concept, Context) framework, this review will include: Population: Adults (≥18 years) with a clinical diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder. Concept: The correlation between non-invasive physical maneuvers and invasive arthroscopic findings. Context: Clinical and surgical settings globally. A systematic search will be conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for studies published from the year 2000 onwards. Data selection and extraction will be performed by three independent reviewers to ensure high reliability and transparency. Expected Outcomes The primary outcome of this research is to produce a comprehensive map of diagnostic accuracy. Specifically, the study expects to: Identify High-Value Clinical Markers: Determine which physical tests (e.g., loss of external rotation vs. coracoid palpation) show the strongest correlation with arthroscopic evidence of disease. Highlight Knowledge Gaps: Identify inconsistencies in current diagnostic protocols where clinical findings may fail to predict surgical reality. Refine Diagnostic Pathways: Provide a synthesis that aids clinicians in making more accurate, evidence-based diagnoses without immediate reliance on invasive procedures or expensive imaging. Significance By validating the diagnostic value of clinical tests against arthroscopic findings, this study seeks to improve cost-effectiveness and patient outcomes in the management of Adhesive Capsulitis, particularly in resource-limited settings where advanced imaging is unavailable.