• D S Jones and C Chattopadhyay.
• Wrightington Hospital, Wigan.
• Br J Gen Pract. 1999 Jan 1;49(438):39-41.

BackgroundFrozen shoulder is a common problem in general practice, but its treatment is difficult since none of the currently used therapies are proven to be effective.AimTo assess the effectiveness of suprascapular nerve block to relieve pain and improve range of movement, and its suitability for use in primary care. This small study by a single practitioner aims to justify a larger multicentred trial.MethodA randomized trial of 30 patients to compare a single suprascapular nerve block with a course of intra-articular injections. Patients' pain levels and ranges of movement were assessed over a 12-week period.ResultsSuprascapular nerve block produced a faster and more complete resolution of pain and restoration of range of movement than a series of intra-articular injections. These differences were confirmed by statistical analysis using the Mann-Whitney U-test (P < 0.01 for pain levels and P < 0.05 for range of abduction and external rotation.)ConclusionsThis study suggests that suprascapular nerve block is a safe and effective treatment for frozen shoulder in primary care, and justifies a larger multicentred trial using independent blinded assessment. Such a study should include a third group treated by suprascapular nerve block without steroid; a more comprehensive assessment of patient debility.

This article appears in the collection: Regional stuff.

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