Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Intra-Articular Steroid Injection
and Hydrodilatation, Combined with Home Exercises in Patients
with Adhesive Capsulitis: A Case Series
Authors:
Waghray A, Ayya SS*, Garre S, Prasad RKCH, Sangineni KSDL and Ammanabrolu BR
Author Affiliations
Waghray A Senior Resident, Department of Anesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
Ayya SS* Additional Professor, Department of Anesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India Email:
sasyasyama@gmail.com
Garre S Assistant Professor, Department of Anesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
Prasad RKCH Assistant Professor, Department of Anesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
Sangineni KSDL Additional Professor, Department of Anesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
Ammanabrolu BR Senior Resident, Department of Anesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
Background: Adhesive capsulitis is characterized by an initial painful phase leading to significant stiffness and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. Early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term functional impairment and chronic discomfort. This case series aims to evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound-guided intra-articular steroid injection and hydrodilatation, combined with home exercises, in managing patients with adhesive capsulitis.
Methods: Six patients with shoulder pain were treated at a tertiary care centre from June 2022 to May 2024. Inclusion criteria included a Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) score greater than 30 and a limitation of glenohumeral joint movement more than 25% in at least two directions. All patients received 10 ml of intra-articular steroid with local anaesthetic. Pain relief and range of motion were assessed immediately after intervention and during follow-up at 1, 6, 12, and 18 months.
Results: Immediate post-injection assessments showed dramatic pain relief and improvement in the range of motion of the shoulder joint. Further follow-up revealed that all patients experienced sustained pain relief and improved range of motion, with no reported complications.
Conclusion: Ultrasound-guided intra-articular steroid and local anaesthetic injections combined with home-based exercises are an effective regimen for managing adhesive capsulitis. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for improved outcomes