injection of the glenohumeral joint

Last edited 06/2020

The glenohumeral joint may be injected for conditions such as osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, crystal arthropathies and in early adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).

Aspiration of the glenohumeral joint may be difficult and when essential, as in cases of suspected joint infection, repeated procedures and fluorscopic or ultrasound guidance may be required.

The glenohumeral joint may be accessed via a posterior or anterior approach.

Some operators may find the posterior approach easier, though preferences vary. Equally the dose of steroid used varies between different preparations and guidance is often available on package inserts. The mixing of the injection with local anaesthetic varies between operators though some operators feel that its inclusion helps determine if the injection has been placed correctly.

Appropriate informed consent, aseptic technique and aftercare instructions with rest of the shoulder for 24-48 hours should be applied in all cases.