Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, causes significant pain and stiffness due to inflammation and tightening of the shoulder joint capsule. Injections are often used to reduce pain, improve movement, and support recovery.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we provide two evidence-based, non-surgical injection treatments for frozen shoulder:
- Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection
- Ultrasound-guided hydrodilatation
Both treatments are designed to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve shoulder mobility.
Cortisone Injection for Frozen Shoulder
A cortisone injection for frozen shoulder (also called a steroid injection) is one of the most commonly used treatments, particularly in the early, painful stage of the condition.
How does a cortisone injection work?
Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication. When injected directly into the shoulder joint, it helps to:
- Reduce inflammation in the joint capsule
- Provide effective pain relief
- Improve range of motion
- Reduce night pain
- Allow better participation in physiotherapy
Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection in Alton
At Alton Pain Clinic, all shoulder injections are ultrasound guided. This ensures:
- Accurate placement into the shoulder joint
- Improved effectiveness
- Reduced risk of side effects
- Greater patient comfort
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection in Alton is particularly effective when frozen shoulder is diagnosed early.
Hydrodilatation for Frozen Shoulder
Hydrodilatation (also known as capsular distension) is a more advanced injection treatment used for frozen shoulder, especially when stiffness is the main problem.
What is hydrodilatation?
Hydrodilatation involves injecting a combination of:
- Steroid
- Local anaesthetic
- Sterile fluid
This gently stretches the tight joint capsule, helping to:
- Break adhesions
- Reduce stiffness
- Improve shoulder movement
- Accelerate recovery
Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodilatation in Alton
At Alton Pain Clinic, ultrasound-guided hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder allows precise expansion of the joint capsule under real-time imaging, improving safety and outcomes.
This treatment is particularly useful in:
- The frozen (stiff) stage
- Long-standing adhesive capsulitis
- Cases not responding to cortisone injection alone
Cortisone Injection vs Hydrodilatation – Which Is Better?
The best injection depends on:
- The stage of frozen shoulder
- Severity of pain vs stiffness
- Response to previous treatments
| Treatment | Best for |
|---|---|
| Cortisone injection | Early painful stage, inflammation, night pain |
| Hydrodilatation | Significant stiffness, restricted movement, slower recovery |
At Alton Pain Clinic, clinicians assess your shoulder carefully before recommending the most appropriate injection as part of a personalised treatment plan.
How Long Do Frozen Shoulder Injections Last?
- Pain relief from a steroid injection may begin within days and last several weeks to months
- Hydrodilatation may provide longer-lasting improvement
Are Frozen Shoulder Injections Safe?
Yes, when performed correctly. At Alton Pain Clinic:
- All injections are ultrasound guided
- Clinicians explain benefits and potential side effects
- Treatments are tailored to individual patients
Most patients tolerate shoulder injections very well.
Frozen Shoulder Injection Treatment in Alton, Hampshire
At Alton Pain Clinic, we specialise in non-surgical frozen shoulder treatment, including:
- Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections
- Ultrasound-guided hydrodilatation
- Comprehensive shoulder pain assessment
- Individualised treatment plans
We treat patients from Alton, Hampshire, and surrounding areas, providing expert care focused on pain relief, improved mobility, and long-term recovery.
Key Takeaway
The most commonly used injections for frozen shoulder are cortisone injections and hydrodilatation. At Alton Pain Clinic, both treatments are performed under ultrasound guidance to maximise accuracy, safety, and outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which injection is used for frozen shoulder?
The most commonly used injections are a cortisone (steroid) injection and hydrodilatation, both designed to reduce pain and improve shoulder movement.
What is the difference between a cortisone injection and hydrodilatation?
A cortisone injection reduces inflammation and pain, while hydrodilatation gently stretches the tight joint capsule to improve stiffness and movement.
Are frozen shoulder injections ultrasound guided at Alton Pain Clinic?
Yes. At Alton Pain Clinic, all frozen shoulder injections are ultrasound guided to improve accuracy, safety, and effectiveness.