Shoulder Joint Injection

What is a shoulder joint injection?

A shoulder joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the shoulder. It is commonly recommended for conditions such as:

• Osteoarthritis – Wear and tear of the joint causing stiffness and discomfort
• Rotator cuff injuries – Inflammation or damage to the tendons around the shoulder
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) – Severe stiffness and pain limiting movement
• Bursitis – Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint
• Impingement syndrome – When tendons in the shoulder become irritated or compressed

The injection typically contains:

• A corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and provide long-term pain relief
• A local anaesthetic for immediate but temporary pain relief

Shoulder injections can also be used to help diagnose pain, confirming whether the shoulder joint is the main cause of discomfort.

When is a shoulder joint injection recommended?

A shoulder joint injection may be advised if you experience:

• Persistent shoulder pain that does not improve with physiotherapy or medication
• Restricted movement, making everyday tasks difficult
• Pain that affects sleep or limits activities such as dressing, lifting, or reaching overhead

For some patients, injections help delay or reduce the need for surgery, allowing continued rehabilitation and pain management.

Benefits of a shoulder joint injection

A shoulder joint injection can offer several advantages:

• Pain relief – Many patients experience significant pain reduction within a few days
• Improved mobility – By reducing inflammation, the injection helps restore movement
• Diagnostic confirmation – If the injection provides relief, it confirms that the shoulder joint is the source of pain
• Non-surgical treatment option – Helps manage symptoms without the need for immediate surgery

The effects of the injection can last for several weeks to months, depending on the condition and individual response.

What does a shoulder joint injection involve?

A shoulder joint injection is a quick and straightforward outpatient procedure, usually taking 15–30 minutes.

Step-by-step process:

·      Preparation – The area around the shoulder is cleaned with an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection

·      Anaesthetic – A local anaesthetic may be applied to numb the area

·      Injection – A fine needle is inserted into the shoulder joint, sometimes using ultrasound or X-ray guidance for accuracy

·      Medication delivery – The corticosteroid and anaesthetic are injected into the joint

After the procedure, you will be monitored briefly and can return home the same day. Most patients can resume light activities within 24–48 hours.

Potential risks and side effects

Shoulder joint injections are generally safe, but as with any procedure, there are some potential risks:

• Temporary soreness at the injection site
• Minor bleeding or bruising, particularly if taking blood-thinning medication
• Infection, though this is rare
• Allergic reactions, which are uncommon but should be discussed with your doctor
• Short-term flare-up of symptoms before the medication takes full effect

If you experience severe pain, swelling, redness, or fever, seek medical advice immediately.

Aftercare & recovery

To maximise the effectiveness of your shoulder joint injection, follow these aftercare guidelines:

• Rest & activity modification – Avoid strenuous movements and heavy lifting for at least 48 hours
• Apply ice packs – Helps reduce swelling and discomfort
• Monitor your shoulder – Watch for any unusual pain, swelling, or redness
• Follow-up care – Attend any scheduled appointments to assess progress

In some cases, physiotherapy may be recommended to strengthen the shoulder and improve long-term outcomes. If the injection only provides temporary relief, further treatment options can be explored, such as repeat injections, physiotherapy, or surgery.