Ultrasound-guided glenohumeral infiltration

Ultrasound-guided injection of the glenohumeral joint is a medical procedure in which an ultrasound device is used to guide the injection of medication into the shoulder joint. This is performed to relieve pain and inflammation in the joint and improve shoulder mobility in certain pathological conditions. The use of ultrasound guidance provides greater precision in accessing the joint and administering the medication.

The ultrasound-guided injection of the glenohumeral joint is generally performed in an outpatient setting and lasts 10 to 15 minutes. The steps are as follows:

• Preparation: An ultrasound examination is performed prior to injection and the entry site is marked on the skin.
• Local anesthesia: A small amount of local anesthesia may be applied to the skin to reduce pain during injection.
• Asepsis: An antiseptic is applied to the skin, and the equipment and the field are prepared under strict aseptic conditions. Ultrasound guidance: Ultrasound is used to guide the needle into the shoulder joint and ensure the medication is administered at the correct site.
• Medication injection: The medication is administered through the needle and into the shoulder joint.

The main indications for ultrasound-guided injections into the glenohumeral joint include:

• Inflammatory joint processes: inflammation and joint effusion that cause pain and reduced shoulder function. Ultrasound access and precision allow us to remove the joint effusion and treat the inflammation by administering anti-inflammatory medications.
• Osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint: We can inject medications into the glenohumeral joint to reduce the pain and mobility limitations caused by osteoarthritis.
• Frozen shoulder, retractile capsulitis, or adhesive capsulitis: a process of joint stiffness that can last for months or even years. Treatment is rehabilitative. The use of ultrasound-guided injections in the glenohumeral joint allows for more intense rehabilitation with less pain, shortening recovery times.

Ultrasound-guided injections of the glenohumeral joint are a valid treatment for controlling shoulder pain, either alone or in combination with rehabilitation treatment. Reducing pain before rehabilitation can be an effective measure to shorten rehabilitation time and promote early functional recovery.

It is important to speak with your orthopedic surgeon to determine if ultrasound-guided injection of the glenohumeral joint is an appropriate option for your individual medical condition.