A steroid (cortisone) injection for frozen shoulder typically provides pain relief for several weeks to up to three months. It works best during the early inflammatory stage, reducing pain and improving shoulder movement.
How Steroid Injections Work
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, occurs when the shoulder joint capsule becomes inflamed and stiff, limiting movement and causing pain. A cortisone injection targets this inflammation directly, helping to:
- Reduce pain, including night pain
- Decrease inflammation in the joint capsule
- Improve range of motion
At Alton Pain Clinic, all injections are ultrasound-guided, which ensures accurate placement and maximises effectiveness.
How Long Does Relief Last?
The effects of a steroid injection can vary depending on individual factors, but generally:
- Pain relief can last several weeks to up to three months
- Maximum benefit is often seen 1–2 weeks after the injection
- Relief may be shorter if the shoulder is already in the stiff (frozen) stage
When Is a Steroid Injection Most Effective?
Steroid injections tend to be most effective during the early “freezing” stage, when inflammation is the primary problem and stiffness is less severe. In later stages, when stiffness dominates, a clinician may recommend hydrodilatation to gently stretch the joint capsule.
Supporting Recovery After a Steroid Injection
To maximise the benefits of your injection:
- Rest the shoulder for the first 24–48 hours
- Avoid heavy lifting or overhead movements immediately
- Start gentle range-of-motion exercises as advised
Steroid Injection and Hydrodilatation at Alton Pain Clinic
At Alton Pain Clinic, we provide both:
- Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections
- Ultrasound-guided hydrodilatation
Both are performed under ultrasound guidance for precision, safety, and better outcomes. Our clinicians design a personalised treatment plan for each patient, focusing on pain relief, restoring shoulder movement, and long-term recovery.
Key Takeaway
A steroid injection for frozen shoulder can provide pain relief for several weeks to three months, helping you move your shoulder more comfortably and participate in physiotherapy. For longer-lasting improvements, a structured treatment plan, including hydrodilatation if needed, ensures the best outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a steroid injection last for frozen shoulder?
A steroid (cortisone) injection for frozen shoulder typically provides pain relief for several weeks to around three months, depending on the stage of the condition and individual response.
When is a steroid injection most effective for frozen shoulder?
Steroid injections are most effective during the early “freezing” stage, when pain and inflammation are the main issues rather than stiffness.
How soon will I feel pain relief after a steroid injection?
Most patients notice improvement within 1–2 weeks, though some may feel relief sooner or slightly later depending on their individual condition.