Although joint injections are generally well-tolerated, there are certain scenarios where they may not be suitable. Your clinician will evaluate:
- Uncontrolled diabetes: Steroid injections can temporarily raise blood sugar levels.
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy: May increase the risk of bleeding or bruising.
- Active infection: Local or systemic infections can be exacerbated by steroid use.
- Severe allergy to injection components: Individuals with a known sensitivity to corticosteroids or anaesthetic agents.
Understanding Steroid Injections for Frozen Shoulder
Corticosteroid injections, also known as steroid injections, are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in frozen shoulder. When delivered precisely into the shoulder joint capsule under ultrasound guidance, they can help improve mobility and comfort, especially in the early and painful stages of the condition.
Who Can Benefit from Frozen Shoulder Injections
Injections can be very effective for people who:
- Are in the early or painful “freezing” stage of frozen shoulder, where inflammation is active
- Have tried painkillers or physiotherapy but still struggle with pain or mobility
- Have pain that disrupts sleep or daily activities
- Want to improve movement so they can engage more effectively with rehabilitation exercises
At Alton Pain Clinic, we use ultrasound guidance to ensure medication — whether corticosteroid with anaesthetic or a hydrodilatation mixture — is delivered precisely into the shoulder joint. This improves accuracy and effectiveness while reducing discomfort and risk.
When Injections May Not Be Suitable
Although many people benefit from injections, there are certain situations where they might not be the best option:
Underlying medical conditions
- Uncontrolled diabetes: Steroid injections can temporarily raise blood sugar levels.
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy: Increased risk of bleeding or bruising.
- Active infection: Injecting steroids when an infection is present — either locally in the shoulder or systemically — can worsen the condition.
- Allergy to injection components: Sensitivities to corticosteroids or anaesthetics restrict safe use.
Why Individual Assessment Matters
No two shoulders — or patients — are the same. That’s why at Alton Pain Clinic we always start with a comprehensive assessment that includes:
- Detailed clinical history
- Physical examination
- Diagnostic imaging (like ultrasound) to confirm the cause of symptoms
This helps ensure injections are recommended only when they are likely to be helpful, and tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
What to Expect from Treatment
When a frozen shoulder injection is appropriate:
- Many patients feel noticeable pain relief within days, especially in the early stage.
- Reduced inflammation often makes movement easier and allows more effective participation in physiotherapy.
- Minimally invasive techniques like hydrodilatation can help stretch and improve the flexibility of the tight joint capsule.
Conclusion
At Alton Pain Clinic, our experienced team tailors every treatment plan to you — ensuring the safest and most effective use of joint injection therapies. If you’re wondering whether a frozen shoulder injection could help you, talk to our clinicians for an assessment and personalised advice today.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to have a frozen shoulder injection?
Injections work best during the early “freezing” stage, when pain and inflammation are most severe. At this stage, steroid injections can help control pain and prevent further restriction of movement.
Can people with diabetes have frozen shoulder injections?
People with diabetes can have injections, but extra caution is required. Steroid injections may temporarily raise blood sugar levels, so careful assessment and monitoring are essential. Your clinician at Alton Pain Clinic will discuss risks and alternatives before treatment.
How long do the benefits last?
Pain relief can last several weeks to a few months, depending on the stage of frozen shoulder and individual response.
When is the best time to get a steroid injection?
The injections are most effective during the freezing (painful) stage, when inflammation is highest, helping to reduce pain and stiffness and accelerate recovery.