A comparison of the efficacy of 5% glucose and saline solution in shoulder joint hydraulic distension for the treatment of frozen shoulder.

Objectives: This prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a 5% glucose solution compared to normal saline for treating frozen shoulder via shoulder joint hydraulic distension.

Methods: A total of 100 participants were randomly assigned to either the 5% glucose group (1 ml compound betamethasone +4 ml 2% lidocaine +15 ml 5% glucose) or the saline group (1 ml compound betamethasone +4 ml 2% lidocaine +15 ml normal saline). Patients were assessed at 1, 4, and 12 weeks post-treatment using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index, the Numerical Rating Scale for pain, and active range of motion.

Results: Substantial improvements were demonstrated by both treatment groups at all follow-up points (1, 4, and 12 weeks), as reflected by a decrease in Shoulder Pain and Disability Index score. However, the 5% glucose group showed significantly lower Shoulder Pain and Disability Index scores than the saline group at 4 and 12 weeks (P = 0.003 and P < 0.05, respectively). This group also experienced significantly greater improvements in shoulder abduction at 4 weeks (P = 0.003) and extension at 12 weeks (P = 0.001) than the saline group. No significant differences were noted between the groups in Numerical Rating Scale scores or shoulder range of motion at other time points.

Conclusion: For patients with painful frozen shoulder lasting over a month, both treatments resulted in substantial pain relief and improved function. The 5% glucose solution produced more pronounced benefits at 4 and 12 weeks, particularly with regard to pain relief and increased shoulder mobility. Key messages What is already known about this topic: Although extensive research has been conducted on frozen shoulder, the most effective treatment has yet to be identified. What does this study contribute: This is the first study to use a 5% glucose solution as the primary distending agent in shoulder joint hydraulic distension for frozen shoulder (FS), which is a novel approach not previously explored in the literature. How might this study affect research, practice or policy: This study provides a new clinical protocol for the treatment of frozen shoulder.