Shoulder Bursitis Cortisone Injections
Shoulder bursitis can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and discomfort, often making simple movements like reaching overhead, lifting, or even sleeping on your side difficult. When inflammation in the shoulder bursa is driving symptoms, shoulder bursitis cortisone injections can provide targeted relief.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer ultrasound-guided shoulder injections designed to reduce inflammation, ease pain, and help restore comfortable movement.
What Is Shoulder Bursitis?
Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that sit between bones, tendons, and muscles to reduce friction and allow smooth movement. In the shoulder, the subacromial bursa is one of the most commonly affected. When this bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain and restricted movement, particularly when lifting the arm.
Shoulder bursitis is often linked to:
- Repetitive overhead activity
- Shoulder impingement
- Rotator cuff irritation
- Poor shoulder mechanics
- Overuse or minor injury
It may develop gradually or come on more suddenly, especially after increased activity.
How Cortisone Injections Help
A cortisone injection involves delivering corticosteroid medication directly into the inflamed bursa. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medicines that help reduce swelling and irritation within the shoulder.
By calming the inflammation at the source, the injection can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and make rehabilitation exercises more manageable. This is particularly useful when pain has been ongoing and is limiting recovery.
At Alton Pain Clinic, all shoulder bursitis cortisone injections are performed using ultrasound guidance, allowing precise placement of the medication into the affected bursa.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your appointment will begin with a detailed consultation and musculoskeletal assessment. We’ll assess your symptoms, movement, and any contributing factors to your shoulder pain. If needed, an ultrasound scan will be used to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
If the injection is appropriate, it can often be carried out during the same visit. The procedure itself is quick and usually well-tolerated. A fine needle is guided into the bursa using ultrasound imaging to ensure accurate delivery of the medication.
Most patients can return home shortly afterwards. You may be advised to rest the shoulder for 24–48 hours and gradually return to normal activity.
Benefits of Shoulder Bursitis Cortisone Injections
- Reduced inflammation and pain
- Improved shoulder movement
- More comfortable sleep and daily function
- Minimally invasive treatment
- Supports physiotherapy and recovery
Many patients begin to notice improvement within a few days, with full benefit developing over one to two weeks.
A Wider Approach to Shoulder Recovery
While cortisone injections can be highly effective for bursitis, they work best when combined with a broader treatment plan. This may include physiotherapy, posture correction, strengthening exercises, and advice on movement patterns to reduce irritation in the future.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we focus on treating the underlying cause of shoulder pain—not just the symptoms—so you can move more comfortably and confidently long term.
What our patients say
FAQs
How quickly will the injection work?
Many patients notice improvement within a few days, although full relief can take up to two weeks.
How long does the relief last?
Relief can last several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of inflammation.
Is the injection painful?
Most patients describe only mild discomfort during the procedure.
Can I drive afterwards?
Usually yes, but if your shoulder feels sore, it may be better to arrange transport.
Will I still need exercises afterwards?
Yes. Shoulder exercises and physiotherapy are often important for long-term improvement.