Hydrodilatation, also known as arthrographic distension, is a minimally invasive treatment for the symptoms of frozen shoulder
If you are experiencing increasing stiffness, pain and restriction in your shoulder, you may have a condition called frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. This condition can make everyday activities — such as dressing, driving or reaching overhead — progressively more difficult.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, private shoulder hydrodilatation is available as a minimally-invasive treatment option for frozen shoulder. The procedure is designed to stretch the tight shoulder capsule, reduce pain and improve movement without the need for open surgery.
If frozen shoulder symptoms are affecting your quality of life, a specialist consultation can help determine whether hydrodilatation is appropriate for you.
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition in which the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thickened and inflamed. The capsule is a flexible tissue that normally allows smooth and pain-free movement of the shoulder. When frozen shoulder develops, this capsule tightens and forms adhesions, restricting movement and causing pain. The condition typically progresses through three stages.
In the first stage, known as the ‘freezing’ phase, pain gradually increases and movement becomes limited. During the second stage, the ‘frozen’ phase, stiffness is more prominent and pain may stabilise or reduce slightly. In the final ‘thawing’ phase, movement slowly begins to improve.
The condition can last many months or even years if left untreated. It is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60 and may occur more frequently in people with diabetes or following shoulder injury.
While frozen shoulder can eventually resolve on its own, treatment aims to reduce pain and restore movement more quickly.
Shoulder hydrodilatation, also known as arthrographic distension, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat frozen shoulder.
During the procedure, a mixture of sterile fluid, local anaesthetic and often a corticosteroid is injected into the shoulder joint under imaging guidance, usually using ultrasound or X-ray. The fluid gently stretches the tightened capsule, helping to break down adhesions and increase joint space.
The local anaesthetic provides temporary pain relief, while the steroid reduces inflammation. By expanding the capsule, hydrodilatation can improve range of motion and reduce discomfort.
The procedure is typically performed as an outpatient treatment and usually takes less than 30 minutes. You may feel a sensation of pressure during the injection, but discomfort is generally manageable.
After the procedure, physiotherapy is often recommended to maintain the improved range of movement. Actively using the shoulder during the recovery phase helps maximise the benefits of the treatment.
Hydrodilatation is considered less invasive than surgical options such as manipulation under anaesthetic or arthroscopic release, making it an attractive option for suitable patients.
The cost of shoulder hydrodilatation at Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens depends on your individual clinical assessment and treatment plan, as well as which consultant you choose to have treatment with.
Following your consultation, if hydrodilatation is recommended, you will receive clear and transparent information about the cost of the procedure before deciding whether to go ahead.
Our prices typically include the procedure itself, including any imaging guidance needed during, as well as any follow-up appointments, and often a course of physiotherapy.
If you have private medical insurance, it is important to confirm your level of cover directly with your provider. For self-funding patients, the hospital team can provide detailed pricing information and explain available payment options.
Clear communication ensures you understand both the clinical and financial aspects of your care.
Choosing private care allows you to access prompt consultant-led assessment and treatment in a dedicated clinical setting.
Your consultation will begin with a detailed discussion of your symptoms. Frozen shoulder typically develops gradually, with increasing stiffness and pain that may worsen at night. You may find that lifting your arm becomes progressively more difficult, and certain movements feel restricted.
A physical examination will assess your range of motion and identify characteristic patterns of stiffness. Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other shoulder conditions.
Hydrodilatation is often recommended when conservative treatments such as physiotherapy and anti-inflammatory medication have not provided sufficient improvement. The aim is to treat the underlying tightening of the joint capsule, which restricts shoulder movement.
Your consultant will explain the procedure in detail, including expected benefits, potential risks and recovery timeline, as well as alternative treatments, so you can make an informed decision.
When you choose to go private with Fairfield Independent Hospital in St Helens, you can expect:
Frozen shoulder can be highly frustrating and restrictive. Timely access to specialist treatment can help shorten the course of symptoms and restore function more quickly.
At Fairfield Independent Hospital, hydrodilatation is performed by experienced consultants using imaging guidance to ensure precision and safety. From initial consultation through to follow-up care, your treatment pathway is streamlined and personalised, and you’ll be informed and consulted throughout.
If you are struggling with persistent shoulder stiffness or pain, arranging a consultation is the first step.
To book a consultation to discuss frozen shoulder treatments with an orthopaedic surgeon near you, give us a call and one of our friendly advisers will help you find an appointment time that suits you.
Reception: 01744 739 311
Mon - Sun: 8am to 8pm
Free car parking
