Hydrodilatation for Frozen Shoulder

About Hydrodilatation

Hydrodilatation is a non-surgical treatment for frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. It involves injecting a mixture of sterile saline, local anesthetic and steroid into the shoulder joint. This aims to stretch the joint capsule, reduce inflammation, improve movement and decrease pain.

Hydrodilatation may provide an early reduction in pain and a gradual improvement in shoulder movement. Some patients notice improvement soon after treatment, while the full benefit may develop over several weeks. Results and the duration of benefit vary between patients.

Rehabilitation exercises are normally recommended after the procedure to help restore movement and maintain progress.

Hydrodilatation for Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes pain and stiffness, significantly reducing the shoulder’s range of movement. It occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened and restricted.

Hydrodilatation is one treatment option that may help reduce pain and restore movement. A clinical assessment is required to confirm whether the procedure is suitable for you.

What is Shoulder Hydrodilatation?

Shoulder hydrodilatation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat frozen shoulder. During this procedure, a small amount of fluid, usually a combination of local anaesthetic and saline, is injected into the joint space. The anaesthetic is injected to numb the area, providing immediate pain relief. The saline solution helps to stretch the capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint, breaking down scar tissue and improving the range of motion. The procedure is guided by imaging techniques, such as ultrasound, to ensure that the injection is accurately placed within the joint space.

How Does Hydrodilatation Work?

The procedure starts with the administration of a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the shoulder. Once the area is numbed, a needle is carefully guided into the joint space using imaging. A small amount of saline and local anaesthetic is injected into the capsule that surrounds the joint. The injected fluid expands the joint space, helping to stretch and break down the thickened capsule that surrounds the shoulder. This helps in reducing pain and improving the range of motion.

Benefits of Hydrodilatation for Frozen Shoulder

Hydrodilatation is a non-surgical treatment that may help reduce pain and improve shoulder movement.

• Pain relief: The steroid aims to reduce inflammation, while the local anesthetic may provide short-term pain relief.
• Improved movement: The injected fluid expands the joint capsule and may help improve the shoulder’s range of movement.
• Minimally invasive: The procedure is performed using ultrasound guidance and usually requires minimal downtime.
• Supports rehabilitation: Improved pain and movement may make it easier to begin or progress shoulder exercises.

Results vary between patients, and improvement may develop gradually over several weeks.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

The skin is cleaned, and local anesthetic is used to improve comfort. Under ultrasound guidance, a mixture of sterile saline, local anesthetic and steroid is injected into the shoulder joint to expand the restricted capsule.

You may experience temporary pressure or discomfort during the procedure. Some patients notice early improvement, while others improve gradually over the following weeks.

After the procedure, you will normally be advised to begin gentle shoulder exercises or physiotherapy. This aims to restore movement and help maintain the benefit of the treatment.

*Results vary by patient. You will receive more guidance by a practitioner prior to booking your treatment.
** Although effects are long lasting they do vary. Our chartered physiotherapists will provide more detail during your consultation.