Ultrasound-Guided Glenohumeral Corticosteroid Injection for the Treatment of Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder: The Role of Clinical Stage in Response to Treatment

Summary of the Article

  1. Title of the Article:
    Ultrasound-Guided Glenohumeral Corticosteroid Injection for the Treatment of Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder: The Role of Clinical Stage in Response to Treatment

  2. First Two Authors Followed by et al:
    Brittany M. Ammerman, MD, and Elizabeth R. Dennis, MD, et al.

  3. One-Line Summary of the Article:
    Early-stage ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections significantly improve recovery outcomes in adhesive capsulitis by reducing pain and restoring range of motion.

  4. Six Key Points from the Article:

    1. Adhesive capsulitis is staged from 1 to 4, with Stages 1 and 2 characterized by synovial inflammation and early fibrosis.
    2. Ultrasound-guided glenohumeral injection (USGI) with corticosteroids enhances recovery in Stages 1 and 2 by targeting synovial inflammation.
    3. Recovery times were shorter for Stage 1 patients (2-6 weeks) compared to Stage 2 patients (7-10 weeks).
    4. Stage 1 patients showed higher recovery rates in all motion planes, with 100% recovery in forward flexion and internal rotation.
    5. Stage 2 patients had lower recovery rates and longer recovery times, with only 50-72% meeting recovery criteria across motion planes.
    6. Timely diagnosis and intervention in Stage 1 are crucial to prevent progression to capsular fibrosis and prolonged recovery.

  5. Practical Take-Home Message:
    Recognizing adhesive capsulitis early (Stages 1-2) and intervening with ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections can significantly expedite recovery and reduce long-term disability.

  6. Citation for the Article in Vancouver Format:
    Ammerman BM, Dennis ER, Ling D, Hannafin JA. Ultrasound-Guided Glenohumeral Corticosteroid Injection for the Treatment of Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder: The Role of Clinical Stage in Response to Treatment. Sports Health. 2023;16(3):333-339. doi:10.1177/19417381231168799.

Linked Notes

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)-- in patients with diabetes mellitus