Intracapsular (glenoid) injections involve the mixture of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication and is injected into the region that exists between the glenoid and the head of the humerus. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis.

This procedure is performed for patients who are suffering from shoulder joint rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Patients also suffering from adhesive capsulitis (also referred to as “Frozen Shoulder”) can also benefit from this procedure. This injection procedure is done if the patient has not responded well to other forms of treatment such as physical therapy. It is however possible that this procedure can be performed in tandem with other forms of treatment to provide even greater benefits.

Prior to the start of the procedure, the patient is directed to be in a seated position and the surface area of the shoulder is sterilized and local anesthetic is applied to numb the injection site. Once the numbing sensation is in full effect, a needle is inserted into the region that lies between where the glenoid and the head of the humerus are. The combined mixture of anesthetic and steroid medication is then slowly applied into this space, providing pain relief and reduced inflammation within the joint.

Once the injection is complete, the needle is withdrawn and a bandage is applied to the site where the injection took place. The patient will then be directed to an observation room to be monitored for a period of up to 30 minutes to ensure there are no side-effects from the procedure. Once the patient is determined to be okay, the patient is discharged on the same day. It is recommended that the patient avoid that strenuous activities that have the potential to aggravate or irritate the shoulder in the first few days subsequent to the completion of the procedure.