Hydrodilatation - my experience
Posted , 76 users are following.
I've decided to start another thread on here to document my experiences with Hyrodilatation (also spelled Hydrodilation or known as Arthrographic Distension) and how well it works for me over the next few weeks or so.
A brief background, in case anyone didn't read my original thread. I started with odd pains in my shoulder in spring, this year, with no apparant cause and I assumed I'd just pulled a muscle or something like that and hoped it would go away on it's own. It got worse over the summer and I also started to lose movement. I had the usual excrutiating pain on knocks or jerks and aches right down my arm. Pain, lack of sleep and loss of movement finally drove me to the GP in September where I was diagnosed with a frozen shoulder. I managed to seek physiotherapy with Bupa (or I'd still be on the NHS waiting list) and was recommended by a physio to see a consultant with a view to Hydrodilatation.
I had my Hydrodilatation this afternoon - 14th December. A few hours on and I'm feeling fine. I was very nervous but the procedure itself went well and took 15-20 minutes in total. I'd worn a vest top, which meant I didn't need to wear a gown and just dropped my straps off my bad shoulder. I was asked to lie on my front, with a pillow for support. I'd thought the procedure was done via x-ray guidance but it was in fact ultrasound guided. The doctor explained what was about to happen and did an initial scan of my shoulder area before giving me a local anaesthetic. He then put in the needle for the hydrodilatation, which administered first some cortisone and then saline. He said I might feel some pushing and to let him know if it became painful. There was some discomfort but I wouldn't describe it as painful and within a few minutes, he said the saline had started to leak out of the joint and the procedure was over. He did another scan and checked my movement before and after - there was perhaps a couple of degrees improvement but nothing drastic. I left the hospital with a plaster on my shoulder and feeling fine. He said I might experience a bit of aching once the local anaesthetic wears off but the cortisone should kick in within a day or two and should improve things pain-wise.
Physiotherapy is recommended within a few days of the procedure and I have an appointment with the physio on Friday morning and another to see the consultant again in about 6 weeks. So far, so good but it remains to be seen how sucessful it has been in improving pain and getting my movement back. I can currently lift my arm about 90 degrees in front, slightly less at the side and very little behind my back.
I will document my progress over the next few days and weeks, for anyone else considering this treatment. Hope this information is of help to someone and fingers crossed that the procedure works for me!
8 likes, 220 replies
mark81260 maria58274
Posted
Hi,
I am a 56yr old male and have been suffering from a frozen shoulder since February last year (2016). I visited my GP who prescribed Naproxen and Tramadol, which now tend to have no effect on me.
My GP also referred me to see a shoulder and trauma specialist at a local hospital the specialist administered one cortisone injection, which was given to me at 4pm, and by 7pm, that evening had totally worn off.
I was disappointed as I had waited over 3 months for that appointment and was hoping to be rid of the excruciating pain.
Some six weeks later, I had to revisit the shoulder specialist who took an X-ray of the shoulder and advised that I would need MUA. I informed him that I did not want the surgery route and so I have been referred to another hospital and another specialist who has now informed me that because my condition has deteriorated he was unable to carry out a hydrolation procedure under ultra-sound but I must now have a fluoroscopy procedure this is planned for February this year (2017).
I have only seen the physio twice in all this time and on both occasions; I came out with my shoulder covered with sticky plaster.
I had a frozen shoulder over 15 years ago (in the other shoulder) and at that time I had 3 injections directly into the joint no x-ray no ultrasound it was very painful but I never needed to return as after those injections it recovered and I now have full movement in it.
The practice now it seems is to drag out the diagnosis and treatment for this condition in the hope that you just go away and don't bother them, but don't give up, keep making a nuisance of yourself remember these specialist’s don’t have to live with the pain.
I think it needs more research done regarding the causes of this condition.
Elainescribens9 mark81260
Posted
Hi...my second FS which started in June was treated with a MUA in October...it was no more painful afterwards than FS pain. Bit by bit with exercises which were painful I am now painfree...it's worth considering. .
stuart95025 maria58274
Posted
Hi Maria, I had hydrodilation in both shoulders last week, like you the procedures were done at Wilmslow Hospital and were arranged by Prof F.
I won't repeat what's already been said on this forum but I just wanted to thank you for sharing your experience. It was the first time in a year of suffering this invisible ailment that I felt anyone understood!
Four days on and I'm a new man. The adhesions "popped" in both cases and after initial tenderness I am now so much better in terms of pain and range. Physiology starts on Monday and although I know there's still a lot to be done, I'm very confident I'll get there.
I think people think a frozen shoulder is simila to a stiff neck and have no concept of the misery it can cause if not addressed quickly. I waited far too long and like you, my advice is to seek help early and get it sorted early.
Luckily I have private insurance and once I'd decided enough was enough, the appointments came quickly. This was a year in mind! The Arm Clinic and Wilmslow Hospital were fabulous and I'd recommend them to anyone NW based.
Thanks again and happy windmilling ;-)
Elainescribens9 stuart95025
Posted
Hi Stuart....FS sufferers need to know which specialists r good with FS...I'm shocked the amount of suffering patients go through and understand how frightened they are before they make a decision about MUA or hydrodilitation...and of course lucky to have quick private treatment...good luck with the exercises...
stuart95025 Elainescribens9
Posted
You're quite right Elaine. More information from GPs would help. Luckily I'm internet savvy (which is where I learnt about the condition and treatment options),but how many sufferers don't even know what options they have?
maria58274 stuart95025
Posted
Hi Stuart. Glad to hear it worked for you and by the sounds of it, even better than mine in terms of instant release. The Wilmslow Hospital was great - very friendly and professional, as was the Alexandra at Cheadle, where I saw the Prof for my follow up consultation.
If only the NHS was as good- but unfortunately pain doesn't seem to be a priority in these times of cut backs and apart from issuing pain-killers, any other treatment generally means a long waiting list. Many GPs seem to know little about the condition and have little sympathy - thank goodness for this forum where others know exactly what we're going through. Of course, there are differing opinions on the best treatment but at least we get to hear about all the different treatments and the various pros and cons.
You're also right in that people don't underdtand how painful and debititating this condition can be. Perhaps we should stop calling it Frozen Shoulder and instead, Adhesive Capsulitis which most people (who haven't suffered) will never have heard of and maybe sounds a bit more serious!
Good luck with your physio - but don't overdo it. All the best, Maria
CynCash stuart95025
Posted
ami117 maria58274
Posted
Hi Maria thank you so much for your thread I'm a 'newbie' with this FS lark and lying here crying in pain at 3am not knowing what to do! I don't have health insurance but am willing to pay for this injection but live in London does anyone know where I can get it done down this way and costs?
No one seems to get how much pain I'm in and I'm so over it! Thanks x
stuart95025 ami117
Posted
Hi Ami
You've replied to me rather than Maria. Sympathise with your situation and can only recommend that you see your GP and ask for an early referral for treatment. Tell them about the pain and loss of sleep and hopefully they'll take notice. Good luck.
Stuart
Elainescribens9 ami117
Posted
Elainescribens9
Posted
Once uve had the hydrodilitation it's the cost of the physios as well. I used the hospital one for nearly 3 months. Once a week then down to 2 a month...hydrotherapy pool is wonderful...Teddington have one..I now see a really good massage therapist 1/2 a month who I think is better than the physio...still do the exercises and have a swim ...
maria58274 ami117
Posted
Hi Ami. If your doctor can't recommend anyone, try Googling for hydrodilatation London, it seems to come up with some possibilities, including an ongoing trial at University College London Hospital, comparing hydrodilatation with steroid injections. Make sure you choose carefully though, being sure of the credentials of anyone offering it. Good luck - hope you soon find relief.
ami117 stuart95025
Posted
elaine93514 maria58274
Posted
Hi Maria,
I to have a frozen right shoulder, brought on by trauma with me breaking my right wrist 4 months ago. Pulling my hair out coping with both pains but I have been referred for dilitation soon!!
I know what to expect because I suffered a left frozen shoulder 3 years ago & underwent dilitation. It was quite painful I felt but after 15 minutes I felt the relief as tho something had popped. Job was done!
However, physio was next & this took me some months to get back to near normal but I got there.
You mentioned you were on your front for your procedure...I was on my back for mine!! They also told me I would be starting physio straight after the procedure.....not looking forward to that😏 Il let you know how I get on...
elaine93514 maria58274
Posted
Excuse me for asking but did you pay for your treatment if so what kind of price would I be looking to pay? Hope you dnt mind me asking....im on NHS waiting list but going private would be quicker for sure.
Kind regards
maria58274 elaine93514
Posted
Hi Elaine, I was lucky enough to have access to BUPA via my husbands job, so it was paid for throuugh that. I'm not entirely sure how much it cost - it was in the hundreds but not sure how many! Going prvately (my foirst time) was a revelation - it all happened within a few weeks - very efficiaent and quick.
I was told I should have physio within about 4 days, giving the injection time to settle down, My physio did one session and then told me to continue to excercise on my own. My movement returned with my own, gentle excercises.
Good luck with the procudure, hope it works well for you. Let us know how you get on.
maria58274
Posted
elaine93514 maria58274
Posted
Thank you for replying Maria, I know that if I was to have an op for my shoulder it would cost about £4450.00. Guess I will have to wait.
I do endless exercises for my wrist & for my shoulder but the pain has a knock on effect for both. My physio has been wonderful, it was her who referred me to the shoulder consultant thankfully, so maybe I wnt have to wait to long
When I text my fingers hit the wrong key often because theyr so stiff.
I will keep you posted.
Thanks once again....hope you are well & truly recovered.
lyn123xmas elaine93514
Posted
Im so fed up and need to tell someone who understands
I had a fall on my arm 6 months ago
Gradually i noticed increase pain and in the last few months i noticed i couldnt wash my hair, tie my hair up and sleep at night
My right arm is in constant agony and frozen
I cant sleep
Taking tramadol isnt helping
I had hydrodialtion 2 days ago
I think i have more mo ement ut im still in pain does anyone know if this is normal??
elaine93514 lyn123xmas
Posted
Hi,
Bear with it, I know only too well the pain you have experienced & still getting but you will improve no ends.
I have had it in both shoulders over the last 3 yrs. I had my recent hydro procedure only 2 months ago & I can lift my arm upright, to the side & up to my opposite shoulder.
Atm I am not able to get my arm up my back fully but it has improved. Unfortunately for myself I severely broke my wrist on which I then developed FS on the same arm.
Do keep up with all your physio & you will find improvement in no time. Also you should be able to sleep on the affected side with little or no pain.
Good luck, bear with it & you should be free of taking painkillers to relieve the pain as I have.
maria58274 lyn123xmas
Posted
It can take a few days for the cortisone to kick in and help with the pain. Hang on there and the chances are, you'll get some releif in a day or two. Good luck and I hope you're soon feeling much better!
lyn123xmas maria58274
Posted
elaine93514 lyn123xmas
Posted
Hang on in there, you will feel relief. It does make you feel so low & miserable. I felt like giving up because I was so tired thru lack of sleep with the pain and the inability to do simple things thru the day.
Its hard for you to believe now but you will get better....I pray its very soon for you...good luck & chin up x
lyn123xmas elaine93514
Posted
Mapgirl lyn123xmas
Posted
I had hydrodilation on June 16th and it took at least ten days before I felt in any less pain. However now although I know I have a lot of physio work to do to get full movement back I am at least pain free. I went on holiday two weeks after the procedure and was able to enjoy everything. I feel I am back to being myself and not a whinging old woman (I am 55).
I had my procedure done at the NHS diagnostic centre in Cressex, High Wycombe, Bucks, UK. It was Free but I did have to wait three months from first seeing a doctor, in which time my shoulder was excruiatingly painful and froze really badly despite gentle physio.
I do hope you are now starting to fee some relief from the pain, mine seemed to get worse initially then got better.
maria58274 Mapgirl
Posted
Glad to hear it is available on the NHS - but a shame you had to wait 3 months in pain. It seems to be a standard waiting time for the NHS - if it's not life threatening, you have to wait. The consultant told me that the earlier it is done, the better - not only in stopping the pain but it has a better chance of success. Did your GP suggest it, or did he send you to see a consultant?
First time round, all my GP did was prescribe painkillers and offer physio with a 3 month waiting list. It was only because my hubby has BUPA though his job (couldn't afford it otherwise) that I was able to see a physio quicker privately and (to cut a long story short) it was my second physiotherapist that recommended hydrodilatation. Second time round, I knew what it was earlier and bypassed the GP all together. I went from consulant to procedure in less than a week! Looking at the BUPA statement, it would have cost in the region of £1000, plus £45 a time for private physio - beyond a lot of people's means but worth it if you can afford it.
Good luck to those still suffering - hope you get some relief soon.
lyn123xmas Mapgirl
Posted
I have now had hydro for 8 days
I have more movement and a new physio and she seems better
I can now mive my arm 120 degrees
Still have pain
Nights r tge worst and i wake so stiff
How r u now?
Mapgirl lyn123xmas
Posted
I am really greatful that my doctor prescribed lots of codine for the pain when I was in the freezing stage as I was always able to sleep and that good sleep pattern has continued without the codine. They do scare you that it is addictive but I stopped taking it two weeks after my hydro dilation with no ill effects.
Really hoping things improve for you very soon.
lyn123xmas Mapgirl
Posted
Taken some painkillers and continuing the excersises every 20 minutes
Its just so stressful
maria58274 lyn123xmas
Posted
Excercising every 20 minutes sounds rather excessive to me - is this what you were advised? It sounds like you may be irritating the shoulder and not allowing it to settle and heal. I do mine once or twice a day, as I did last time - even skipping a day every now and again to help it settle, if I feel like I've overdone it. I don't do any excercise that causes pain - stretching but stopping if it becomes too uncomfortable. The cortisone takes longer to take effect on some than others, so good luck and let us know how you go on.
Guest lyn123xmas
Posted
Hi lyn123xmas, how are you now? Has it eased?
I'm day 3 post hydro and the pain is much worse than before. I am going insane with the pain and lack of sleep. I'm hoping you are better as I suspect I'm similar to you. My pain is shifting constantly so what eases one day makes it worse the next. Currently it's radiating down the inside of my arm and down to my fingers.
FS for me was post op for torn rotator cuff including decompression which was bungled. I'm feeling utterly depressed about the whole thing as I can't work either.
Sick of listening to the world service and tweet of the day. Sick of eating paracetamol and getting no relief.
any advice from anyone.....
please....
CynCash Guest
Posted
Now I was just diagnosed with FS in right shoulder and the ortho is recommending hydrodialation. I am reluctant to get it since my PT from Florida said basically to leave it alone and it will get better on its own. Has yours improved after the hydro? I sure hope so! Thanks.
angela12925 Guest
Posted
HI Lyn123 xmas and Guest,
I had shoulder decompression in May 18 and recovery has been slow as I was having lots of pain in my elbow which i was told was golfers elbow by the physio, I went for my final appoitnment with the consultant who believed the pain to be a nerve getting trapped from partial FS, he arranged for me to have hydrodilation last thurs and to start excercise day after, but each time i do the turning out excercise the nerve pain comes back, unsure but think it is when the elbow is bent, it seems to be stuck. Have you any insight you could give, I am currentlly on amitriptyline and take cocodamol when the nerve pain flares up.