STEROID INJECTION IN SHOULDER
Shoulder pain can affect everything from lifting your arm to sleeping comfortably at night. When inflammation within the joint, tendons, or surrounding soft tissues is causing persistent discomfort, a steroid injection in the shoulder can provide targeted relief.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer ultrasound-guided shoulder steroid injections designed to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve movement so you can return to daily activities with greater ease.
What Is a Shoulder Steroid Injection?
A shoulder steroid injection involves delivering a corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory medication) and sometimes a local anaesthetic directly into the affected area of the shoulder. These injections are commonly used to treat painful joint, tendon, or bursa inflammation when conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, rest, and medication have not provided sufficient relief.
Corticosteroids work by calming inflammation and swelling, which are often the main drivers of shoulder pain. By targeting the medication precisely at the source of irritation, the injection can reduce discomfort and improve shoulder function.
Conditions Treated with Shoulder Steroid Injections
Steroid injections in the shoulder may be recommended for a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears
- Shoulder impingement syndrome
- Subacromial bursitis
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Inflammatory arthritis affecting the shoulder joint
- Biceps tendon irritation
Ultrasound-guided injections are widely used to manage shoulder pain by improving accuracy and effectiveness, especially when targeting specific tendons or bursae.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your appointment begins with a detailed consultation and shoulder assessment. If necessary, an ultrasound scan will be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the most appropriate injection site.
The skin is cleaned, and a fine needle is guided into the target area using ultrasound. The procedure typically takes only a few minutes and is generally well tolerated. Most patients can return home shortly afterwards, though you may be advised to rest the shoulder and avoid strenuous activity for a short period.
Corticosteroid injections usually begin to reduce pain within a few days, with full benefit often developing over one to two weeks.
Benefits of Shoulder Steroid Injections
- Targeted reduction of inflammation and pain
- Improved shoulder mobility and function
- Minimally invasive, quick outpatient procedure
- Helps support physiotherapy and rehabilitation
- May delay or avoid more invasive treatments in some cases
Book a Consultation
If shoulder pain is limiting your movement or affecting your daily life, a targeted steroid injection may help reduce inflammation and restore comfort. Contact Alton Pain Clinic today to book your consultation and find out if this treatment is right for you.
What our patients say
FAQs
How quickly will a shoulder steroid injection work?
Many patients notice improvement within a few days, though full benefit can take up to two weeks.
Is the injection painful?
Most people describe only mild discomfort. Ultrasound guidance helps ensure the injection is precise and gentle.
How long does the relief last?
Pain relief may last from several weeks to several months, depending on the condition and individual response.
Can I drive after the injection?
You can usually drive, but if your shoulder feels sore or stiff, it may be safer to arrange transport home.
Will I still need physiotherapy?
Yes. Physiotherapy is often recommended to strengthen the shoulder and maintain long-term improvement after the injection.