JOINT PAIN
Adhesive Capsulitis Embolization (ACE)
A minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for frozen shoulder that reduces pain and restores shoulder mobility.
What is Adhesive capsulitis embolization (ACE)
Adhesive capsulitis embolization (ACE) is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) by targeting abnormal blood vessels that fuel inflammation and pain.
At Seamless Medical Centers in Port Arthur, TX, ACE is performed using advanced imaging and catheter-based techniques to precisely block these inflammatory vessels. By reducing inflammation at its source, ACE can relieve pain, improve shoulder mobility, and help patients recover without manipulation under anesthesia or surgery.
Symptoms Treated
Shoulder Pain
Dull, aching sensation, typically in the outer shoulder and aggravated by attempted motion.
Shoulder Stiffness
Tightness restricting the range of motion, especially with overhead or behind-the-back movements.
Shoulder Pain
Dull, aching sensation, typically in the outer shoulder and aggravated by attempted motion.
Shoulder Stiffness
Tightness restricting the range of motion, especially with overhead or behind-the-back movements.
Are You a Candidate for ACE?
If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, you may be a candidate for this treatment.
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Procedure Details
During your consultation, our specialists will:
Evaluation
Our doctors at Seamless Health in Port Arthur, TX, who are at the forefront of cutting-edge embolization therapies, will perform a thorough history and physical examination. You may undergo MRI to evaluate for adhesive capsulitis and to rule out other causes of shoulder pain.
The ACE Procedure
The procedure is performed under sedation and local anesthesia. Via a pinhole in the wrist, your doctor will advance a tiny catheter, or tube, to the small arteries supplying the inflamed shoulder capsule under X-ray guidance. Tiny embolic particles are precisely delivered to reduce blood flow to these abnormal vessels while preserving normal circulation.
Post Procedure
ACE is performed as an outpatient procedure with patients going home shortly after the procedure. Unlike some other treatments for frozen shoulder, you can begin gentle physical therapy within days following the procedure. This early mobilization helps maximize the benefits of reduced inflammation by improving range of motion while pain is decreased.
We'll answer all your questions and ensure you fully understand your options, even if that means we think you are better suited by procedures we don't offer.
Benefits and Risks
Typical Benefits
- •Potential for significant pain reduction without surgery
- •Maintenance of natural shoulder anatomy and function
- •Minimal recovery time compared to surgical interventions
- •Ability to start physical therapy sooner, potentially improving outcomes
- •May accelerate recovery from frozen shoulder, which can otherwise last 1-3 years
Potential Risks
- •Temporary increase in pain for 1-3 days post-procedure
- •Rare risk of non-target embolization affecting nearby tissues
- •Varying degrees of response across patients
- •Possible need for additional treatments for complete resolution
Recovery and Outlook
Recovery from adhesive capsulitis embolization is typically quick. Some patients experience temporary soreness for a few days, followed by gradual improvement in pain and shoulder mobility.
Many patients notice improvement within 1–2 weeks, with continued gains in range of motion over 1–3 months. ACE may help shorten the overall course of frozen shoulder by addressing inflammation that prolongs stiffness and pain.
Answers to Your
Common Questions
ACE provides relief from frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation in the shoulder joint capsule. The procedure targets abnormal blood vessels that contribute to chronic inflammation and pain. Studies show that 70-80% of patients experience significant pain reduction and improved range of motion. ACE can accelerate recovery and help you regain shoulder function faster than waiting for natural resolution, which can take 1-3 years.
ACE complements physical therapy rather than replacing it. While physical therapy and injections provide temporary relief, ACE addresses the underlying inflammation causing frozen shoulder. Many patients find that ACE allows them to participate more effectively in physical therapy due to reduced pain. ACE provides longer-lasting results than steroid injections and can significantly shorten the overall recovery time compared to conservative treatment alone.
Most patients can resume normal daily activities within 1-2 days after ACE. You may experience temporary increased shoulder discomfort for a few days post-procedure. Physical therapy should be continued or resumed within a few days to maximize benefits. Gradual improvement in pain and range of motion typically occurs over 4-12 weeks, with continued progress as inflammation resolves and mobility improves.
Yes, physical therapy remains an important component of frozen shoulder treatment even after ACE. The procedure reduces pain and inflammation, making physical therapy more tolerable and effective. Most patients find they can perform stretching and strengthening exercises with less discomfort after ACE. The combination of ACE and physical therapy typically provides better outcomes than either treatment alone.
Good candidates for ACE include patients with adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) who have persistent pain and limited range of motion despite conservative treatments like physical therapy, NSAIDs, and corticosteroid injections. ACE is particularly beneficial for patients in the painful freezing or frozen stages who want to accelerate recovery and improve their quality of life. A consultation and examination will determine if ACE is appropriate for your condition.
Your physician: Zagum Bhatti, M.D.
Board-Certified Interventional Radiologist · Former Assistant Professor of VIR, UTHealth Houston
Dr. Bhatti specializes in image-guided embolization for joint and musculoskeletal conditions.
Meet Dr. Bhatti →