HYDRODISTENSION INJECTION FOR FROZEN SHOULDER
Understanding Hydrodistension for Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, can cause significant shoulder pain, stiffness and restricted movement. When symptoms persist despite conservative treatments, hydrodistension may be considered to help improve shoulder movement and reduce stiffness.
Hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder is a minimally invasive procedure in which a combination of fluid and medication is injected into the shoulder joint. The fluid helps stretch the tight joint capsule, which may improve movement and reduce the restriction associated with a frozen shoulder.
At Alton Pain Clinic, hydrodistension is performed using ultrasound guidance to help accurately identify the shoulder joint and guide the injection.
What Is Hydrodilatation?
Hydrodilatation, also called hydrodistension, is a procedure used to treat stiffness associated with frozen shoulder. It involves injecting fluid into the shoulder joint to gently expand and stretch the contracted joint capsule.
You may also see the procedure described as hydro dilation, hydro-dilatation or hydrodilation. These terms are commonly used to refer to the same general procedure.
The aim of hydrodilatation is to help restore movement in a shoulder that has become stiff and painful due to adhesive capsulitis.
How Does Hydrodistension Work?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and tightens. This can make everyday movements, such as reaching overhead, dressing or reaching behind your back, difficult and painful.
During hydrodistension, fluid is injected into the shoulder joint under ultrasound guidance. The injected fluid helps expand the joint capsule and may reduce the mechanical restriction affecting shoulder movement.
Depending on your individual circumstances, medication such as a local anaesthetic and corticosteroid may also be included in the injection.
The procedure is intended to:
- Stretch the tight shoulder joint capsule
- Improve shoulder movement
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Make rehabilitation and exercises easier
- Support recovery from frozen shoulder
Hydrodilatation for Frozen Shoulder: What Does It Treat?
Hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder is primarily used for adhesive capsulitis, particularly when shoulder stiffness is significantly limiting movement.
Frozen shoulder commonly develops in stages. The painful stage may involve increasing shoulder pain, while the stiff or “frozen” stage is characterised by substantial restriction of movement.
Hydrodistension may be considered when stiffness is a prominent feature and other treatments have not provided sufficient improvement.
A clinical assessment is important before treatment to determine whether hydrodilatation is appropriate for you.
What Happens During a Hydrodilatation Injection?
Before the procedure, your clinician will assess your symptoms and shoulder movement to determine whether hydrodilatation injection is suitable.
The procedure generally involves:
- You will be positioned comfortably so that the clinician can access your shoulder.
- Ultrasound is used to identify the relevant structures and shoulder joint.
- The skin is cleaned and prepared.
- A needle is carefully guided into the shoulder joint using ultrasound.
- Fluid is gradually injected to expand the joint capsule.
- Medication may be administered as part of the procedure, depending on your individual treatment plan.
- The needle is removed and the area is cleaned.
The procedure is usually performed as an outpatient treatment, meaning you can normally return home afterwards.
Why Is Ultrasound Guidance Used?
At Alton Pain Clinic, hydrodistension is performed under ultrasound guidance. Ultrasound allows the clinician to visualise the shoulder structures in real time and guide the needle towards the intended area.
This helps support accurate needle placement and allows the procedure to be performed with precision.
Is Hydrodilatation Painful?
You may experience some pressure, discomfort or a temporary increase in pain as the fluid is injected and the shoulder capsule is stretched. The level of discomfort varies between individuals.
Your clinician will discuss what to expect before the procedure and take steps to make the treatment as comfortable as possible.
Some people experience increased soreness in the shoulder for a short period after the procedure. Your clinician will provide appropriate aftercare advice.
What Can I Expect After Hydrodistension?
The response to hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder varies from person to person. Some people notice an improvement in movement and pain relatively soon after treatment, while others may experience a more gradual improvement.
Maintaining appropriate shoulder movement and following any rehabilitation or exercise advice provided by your clinician can be an important part of recovery.
You should follow the specific aftercare instructions given to you following your procedure.
How Long Does Hydrodistension Take to Work?
There is no single timeframe for everyone. Some patients may notice changes in pain or shoulder movement soon after treatment, while improvement may continue over the following weeks.
The outcome depends on factors such as the severity and stage of frozen shoulder, how long you have had symptoms and your response to treatment.
Hydrodistension is not a guaranteed cure, and your clinician will discuss the potential benefits and limitations during your assessment.
Hydrodilatation for Frozen Shoulder Cost
The hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder cost can vary depending on the treatment required and your individual circumstances.
At Alton Pain Clinic, price and suitability are confirmed following a clinical assessment. This allows the clinician to determine whether hydrodistension is appropriate for your symptoms and discuss the treatment with you before proceeding.
For information about current pricing and availability, please contact Alton Pain Clinic.
Is Hydrodistension Suitable for Everyone?
Hydrodistension is not appropriate for every person with shoulder pain or stiffness. Your clinician will assess your symptoms, medical history and shoulder function before recommending treatment.
Other conditions can cause symptoms similar to frozen shoulder, so an assessment is important before proceeding.
If further imaging or investigations are considered necessary, your clinician can advise you on what may be appropriate. Alton Pain Clinic does not provide X-ray or MRI scanning directly, but you may be advised to arrange appropriate imaging where clinically indicated.
Benefits of Hydrodilatation for Frozen Shoulder
Potential benefits of hydrodilatation injection may include:
- Reduced shoulder stiffness
- Improved range of movement
- Reduced pain and inflammation
- Improved ability to perform everyday activities
- Greater ease with shoulder exercises and rehabilitation
Results vary between individuals, and your clinician will discuss whether the potential benefits are appropriate for your particular condition.
Risks and Side Effects
As with any injection procedure, hydrodistension can have potential risks and side effects. These may include temporary pain or soreness around the injection site, bruising, bleeding or infection.
Some patients may experience a temporary increase in shoulder discomfort following the procedure.
Your clinician will discuss the potential risks and answer any questions you may have before treatment.
Hydrodilatation vs Other Frozen Shoulder Treatments
Treatment for frozen shoulder depends on the severity of symptoms and the stage of the condition. Options may include activity modification, corticosteroid injections or hydrodistension.
Hydrodistension may be particularly considered when stiffness is a major feature of frozen shoulder and conservative treatment has not provided sufficient improvement.
Your clinician can discuss the available options and help determine the most appropriate approach following an assessment.
Your Care Pathway with us
- To book an appointment you can call our reception line, 0142084487, or email to info@altonpainclinic.co.uk or click the button given below.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal examination and testing.
- Same day Ultrasound Guided Injection for pain relief.
- Discussion of your treatment plan, treatment plan can include advanced treatments for example Cortisone Injections, Hyaluronic injections and various other options tailored to your specific needs.
What our Patients say?
Why Choose Alton Pain Clinic for Hydrodistension?
At Alton Pain Clinic, we provide ultrasound-guided hydrodistension for frozen shoulder, with treatment tailored to your individual symptoms and clinical needs.
Our approach focuses on:
- Ultrasound-guided treatment for accurate needle placement
- Individual clinical assessment before treatment
- Clear explanation of the procedure and what to expect
- Patient-focused care throughout your treatment
- Appropriate aftercare and guidance following the procedure
Book a Hydrodistension Assessment
If frozen shoulder is affecting your movement or causing persistent pain, hydrodistension may be one treatment option to consider.
Contact Alton Pain Clinic to arrange an assessment and discuss whether hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder is suitable for you.
FAQs About Hydrodistension for Frozen Shoulder
What is hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder?
Hydrodilatation is a procedure used to treat stiffness associated with frozen shoulder. Fluid is injected into the shoulder joint to help expand and stretch the tight joint capsule. It is also known as hydrodistension.
Is hydrodistension the same as hydrodilatation?
The terms hydrodistension and hydrodilatation are commonly used to describe the same type of procedure for frozen shoulder. You may also see variations such as hydrodilation or hydro dilation.
What is a hydrodilatation injection?
A hydrodilatation injection involves injecting fluid into the shoulder joint to help stretch the contracted joint capsule associated with frozen shoulder. Medication may also be included depending on the individual’s treatment plan.
How painful is hydrodilatation?
Some people experience pressure or discomfort during the injection, particularly as the shoulder capsule is stretched. Temporary soreness can also occur afterwards. Your clinician will explain what to expect before treatment.
How quickly does hydrodilatation work?
The response varies. Some people notice improvements in pain or movement relatively soon after treatment, while others experience gradual improvement over the following weeks.
How much does hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder cost?
The hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder cost depends on the treatment required and individual circumstances. At Alton Pain Clinic, price and suitability are confirmed following a clinical assessment.