Arthrography-assisted intra-articular injection of steroids in treatment of adhesive capsulitis

Following shoulder arthrography to establish the diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis, we injected steroids via the in situ arthrogram needle. Subsequent intraarticular steroids, if needed, were given at the outpatient clinic using landmarks established at the time of arthrography. Out of 18 patients treated, function sufficient to permit resumption of usual work and self-care activities returned to 16. In 11 patients, recovery was associated with painless total shoulder movement gather than a return to glenohumeral motion. This therapy appears perferable to other forms of intraarticular injection and is an alternative to surgery when physical therapy has failed.