Shoulder
Intra-articular injection / hydrodilatation for adhesive capsulitis
The stiff joint of the frozen shoulder is gently distended with fluid under ultrasound guidance, to regain mobility and reduce pain.
How it is performed
In frozen shoulder, the joint capsule thickens and contracts, limiting movement. Using ultrasound guidance, the needle reaches the joint space and a controlled volume of saline, anaesthetic and corticosteroid is injected: the fluid progressively distends the capsule, reducing inflammation and freeing movement. The procedure is outpatient and well tolerated.
Who it is for
- Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) in the painful or stiff phase
- Marked restriction of passive shoulder movement
- Persistent night pain despite medication and physiotherapy
Recovery
You return home immediately. Physiotherapy should start in the days immediately after, when the shoulder is less painful: it is the combination of both treatments that gives the best result.
Conditions treated in this area: calcific tendinopathy of the rotator cuff, frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), subacromial bursitis.
Scientific evidence
A systematic review of hydrodilatation with corticosteroid documents significant improvements in pain and range of motion in adhesive capsulitis. A recent randomised trial shows that the combination of hydrodilatation, injection and physiotherapy is superior to physiotherapy alone.
References on PubMed
- Hydrodilatation With Corticosteroid for the Treatment of Adhesive Capsulitis: A Systematic Review
Catapano M, Mittal N, et al. — PM R, 2018 · PMID 29129609
- Efficacy of Combination Therapy (Hydrodilatation and Subdeltoid Bursa Injection With Corticosteroid, Mobilization, and Physical Therapy) vs Physical Therapy Alone for Treating Frozen Shoulder: A Randomized Single-Blind Controlled Trial
Huang YH, Kuo YC, et al. — Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2024 · PMID 38092231
Published data describe average results in groups of patients and are not a prediction of an individual outcome. The indication for treatment must always be assessed during a consultation.
Want to know if it is right for you?
At the first consultation we review your clinical history and previous imaging together.