Randomized control study comparing the functional outcome of suprascapular nerve block and hydrodistension in the treatment of frozen shoulder

Background: Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis (AC) is a common musculoskeletal disease which imposes significant morbidity and affects the quality of life. The present study was done to compare the effectiveness of the suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) under ultrasound guidance and hydrodistension in the management of AC. Materials and Methods: This prospective randomized control study was conducted in 60 patients visiting the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, BARC Hospital, Mumbai, with AC not improving with physiotherapy. Patients were divided into Group A (n = 30) who received SSNB under ultrasound guidance in addition to physiotherapy and Group B (n = 30) who underwent hydrodistension of shoulder in addition to physiotherapy. Values for the ROM, Quick DASH score, and visual analog scale (VAS) score were obtained for each patient at the baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Results: Female preponderance was observed in both the groups and overall 22% werediabetics. The difference in improvement in flexion, abduction, external rotation, and internal rotation from baseline to 12 weeks, 4 to 8 weeks, 4 to 12 weeks, and 8 to 12 weeks was higher in hydrodistension group as compared to SSNB group (p < 0.05). The decrease in the VAS and Quick DASH scores from baseline to 12 weeks was higher in hydrodistension group as compared to SSNB group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Both SSNB and hydrodistension are useful in the management of AC. However, hydrodistension displayed better outcome as compared to SSNB in improving the functional outcome of patients.