Comprehensive Treatment for Shoulder Pain at the Pain and Vascular Institute
At the Pain and Vascular Institute, we provide advanced, minimally invasive solutions for patients suffering from chronic shoulder pain and stiffness due to arthritis, frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), or chronic rotator cuff tears. One of these innovative treatments is Shoulder Artery Embolization—a procedure that targets abnormal blood vessels fueling inflammation, helping patients regain motion and reduce pain without major surgery.
What is Shoulder Artery Embolization?
Shoulder Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that relieves pain and stiffness by reducing inflammation around the shoulder joint capsule. Using a tiny catheter and x-ray guidance, the physician accesses the arteries that supply the shoulder—commonly the anterior circumflex humeral, posterior circumflex humeral, and acromial branch of the thoracoacromial artery.
By carefully blocking these abnormal, inflamed vessels with microscopic particles, the procedure cuts off the delivery of inflammatory chemicals that perpetuate pain and scarring. The procedure is performed through a small incision in the wrist, requires no stitches, and allows for same-day discharge with quick recovery.
Why is Shoulder Artery Embolization Effective?
Chronic inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, cause abnormal blood vessels (neovascularity) to develop around the joint capsule. These act as pathways for inflammatory chemicals that worsen pain, stiffness, and scarring, creating a cycle that limits mobility.
Shoulder Artery Embolization breaks this cycle by targeting and blocking the abnormal vessels while preserving normal blood flow to the joint. This:
- Decreases inflammation and capsular swelling
- Relieves pain and stiffness
- Interrupts disease progression
- Restores mobility and function
Frequently Asked Questions
Clinical studies show that approximately 80% of patients experience significant improvement in shoulder pain and function, with many avoiding the need for surgery or prolonged physical therapy.
