LivingCare provides X-ray-guided hydrodistension injections at our modern facility in Leeds. Our consultants deliver precise treatment to ease conditions such as frozen shoulder and interstitial cystitis. With rapid access to appointments, we ensure you receive expert care from consultation to treatment.
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A hydrodistension injection is a minimally invasive treatment. The injection involves the controlled introduction of fluid into the affected joint to gently stretch tight structures and improve mobility.
Commonly used to treat a frozen shoulder, the treatment involves an experienced consultant gently injecting fluid into the joint to stretch a tight capsule.
Although often associated with musculoskeletal conditions, some choose hydrodistension for painful bladder syndrome and overactive bladder. In this case, the treatment involves stretching the bladder beyond its normal capacity.
LivingCare specialists offer the hydrodistension procedure from our Leeds clinic. LivingCare patients can access consultant-led treatment and expert care more quickly.
During hydrodistension injections, a consultant injects a mixture of sterile saline, local anaesthetic and steroid medication under X-ray guidance. The saline gently stretches the joint capsule, helping to relieve tightness and improve movement, while the steroid reduces inflammation and pain. This approach is similar to bladder hydrodistension.
At LivingCare, hydrodistension injections are carried out with precision to ensure patient comfort and accuracy.
A hydrodistension injection may be suitable for people experiencing persistent pain, stiffness and restricted shoulder movement that has not improved with conservative treatments.
Consultants recommend this treatment for:
Hydrodistension can also be used to treat interstitial cystitis.
Before your appointment
Before your appointment, a consultant will review your referral.
During your appointment
The consultant uses X-ray guidance to ensure accuracy. The injection itself takes only a few minutes, with the full appointment usually lasting 15 to 30 minutes. Most patients feel brief pressure as the joint capsule stretches, but a local anaesthetic helps ease discomfort.
After your appointment
Following the hydrodistension treatment, the healthcare team will briefly monitor you. You will go home the same day. Your consultant will prepare a personalised follow-up plan to assess your progress and support your recovery.
Risks associated with a hydrodistension injection are low. However, it is important to be aware of any complications and side effects.
This treatment isn’t suitable for patients who are pregnant or may be pregnant.
Recovery after a hydrodistension injection is usually quick. Most patients can return to light activities within 24 to 48 hours, although you should avoid exercise or heavy lifting for at least 48 hours. Any mild soreness typically settles within a couple of days.
We understand that pain can impact your quality of life and that you want problems sorted quickly. LivingCare offers fast access to consultant-led care and treatment, with same-day and next-day appointments available.
At our facilities, our experienced consultants use state-of-the-art imaging to guide the hydrodistension procedure. This ensures hydrodistension injections are delivered accurately, with care, and with a clear focus on achieving the best possible outcome. This approach helps you return to daily activities sooner and with confidence.
Patients can access hydrodistension treatment in Leeds through:
A private GP or physiotherapist can refer you for the treatment.
To book an appointment or speak to our team, call 0113 249 4655 or use our online enquiry form.
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The injection is suitable for people who continue to experience shoulder pain and stiffness despite physiotherapy or medication. Hydrodistension injections can also be used to treat interstitial cystitis.
A hydrodistension injection is a minimally invasive procedure where fluid is gently injected into a joint to stretch tight structures, helping reduce pain and improve movement.
The injected fluid stretches the stiff capsule, helping restore mobility. The steroid medication reduces joint inflammation.
A combination of local anaesthetic, steroid medication and sterile saline.
Most patients feel brief pressure rather than pain. Local anaesthetic helps minimise discomfort.
The injection takes only a few minutes, and the full appointment lasts 15 to 30 minutes.
You may feel immediate relief, with further improvement developing over the following weeks.

We're always on hand, so get in touch and we'll get back to you straight away.
Speak to our teamYou can receive this treatment at any one of the locations below.
Your healthcare journey in 4 easy steps
Get in Touch
Call us on Leeds 0113 2494655 or Sheffield 0114 7005811 or use our online booking form to send your enquiry. Let us know your preferred appointment type, either virtual or face to face, and we will work to find a time that suits you.
We Arrange Your Appointment
If you filled out our online booking form, one of our team will contact you within 2 hours with available appointment options. Once your appointment is booked, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details you need.
Attend Your Appointment
Attend your appointment at your chosen time, either virtually or in person, with one of our highly qualified consultants. If your appointment requires a written report, this will be prepared and sent to you within 48 hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you need any further tests, treatment or follow-up, we will help arrange these for you. If you require a copy of your report or images, please let us know and we will send these promptly.
Your healthcare journey in 4 easy steps
Get in Touch
Call us on Leeds 0113 2494655 or Sheffield 0114 7005811 or use our online booking form to send your enquiry and we will work to find a time that suits you
We Arrange Your Appointment
If you filled out our online booking form, one of our team will contact you within 2 hours with available appointment options. Once your appointment is booked, you will receive an email confirmation with all the details you need.
Attend Your Appointment
Attend your appointment at your chosen time with highly qualified clinicians. If your appointment requires a written report, this will be prepared and sent to you within 48 hours with the option to upgrade to 24 hours.
Aftercare and Follow-Up
If you need any further tests, treatment or follow-up, we will help arrange these for you. If you require a copy of your report or images, please let us know and we will send these promptly.
You can receive this treatment from one of the consultants listed below.
Explore the various options available for this treatment.
With our self-pay service, there are no waiting lists - consultations are offered within 24 hours, with treatment within a week. All costs, including tests or scans, are quoted upfront with no obligation to proceed. Visit our Prices page for full details.
If using medical insurance, contact your provider to confirm coverage for all treatment stages before your first appointment. You’ll need a referral letter from your GP for a private procedure at The LivingCare Group. Once you have it, either you or your GP can book your first appointment with us.