Adhesive capsulitis is seen in 2.4 out of every 1000 patients and is most commonly seen in our patients over age 50.
Adhesive capsulitis is seen in 2.4 out of every 1000 patients and is most commonly seen in our patients over age 50. Patients are typically complaining of the worst shoulder pain that they have ever experienced. As a result, many patients want an injection during their visit.
There are three injections that are most frequently done for adhesive capsulitis. There is no clear consensus as to which injection to perform. Patients can receive injections within their rotator interval, glenohumeral joint, or subacromial bursa.
The purpose of this review is to look in to the role of injection for adhesive capsulitis and to see which location is preferred. Rotator Interval The rotator interval is the area between the anterior border of the supraspinatus and most superior portion of subscapularis. The interval is also thought to include the long head of the biceps, coracohumal ligament, superior glennohumeral ligament, and a portion of the joint capsule.
Ozaki was evaluating patients with chronic adhesive capsulitis and found that they had a contracted rotator interval and coracohumeral ligament. Since that time, there has been interest in giving corticosteroid injections to both the rotator interval and coracohumeral ligament. In 2015 published in Pain, Dr.
Prestgaard looked at pain outcomes when injecting the rotator interval and GH joint for adhesive capsulitis. The rotator interval injection was done with the patient in the supine position. Using a 13-5 MHz linear transducer, the target of the injection was the rotator interval at the level of the long head of the biceps and anterior joint capsule.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to injection locations for adhesive capsulitis, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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