What is a Shoulder Steroid Injection?
A shoulder steroid injection (also called a cortisone shot) is a treatment where a doctor injects a corticosteroid — a strong anti-inflammatory medicine — directly into the shoulder joint or surrounding area. It helps reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness caused by conditions such as arthritis, rotator cuff problems, bursitis, or frozen shoulder.
How do you prepare for a Shoulder Steroid Injection?
- Tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking, especially blood thinners, since you may need to pause them.
- Tell your doctor if you have had any shoulder surgery.
- Discuss any allergies or past reactions to injections.
- You can usually eat and drink normally before the procedure.
- Wear loose or short-sleeved clothing so your shoulder is easy to access.
- Most people can return to daily activities afterward, but you may want to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24 hours.
Why is a Shoulder Steroid Injection performed?
- To reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder.
- To improve movement and function, making it easier to reach, lift, or sleep.
- To help you stay active and avoid or delay surgery.
- To provide relief when other treatments (like medications, rest, or physical therapy) aren’t enough.
What can you expect during a Shoulder Steroid Injection?
- The procedure is usually done in a clinic and takes about 10–20 minutes.
- Your skin will be cleaned.
- The doctor will insert a small needle into the shoulder joint or bursa and inject the steroid medicine mixed with numbing medicine.
- The use of ultrasound guidance will be used to make sure the injection goes into the right spot.
- You may feel a brief pinch or pressure, but most people tolerate it well.
- You can usually go home shortly after.
What is the follow-up like for a Shoulder Steroid Injection?
- Pain relief often begins within a few days and may last from several weeks to a few months.
- Your doctor may limit steroid injections to 3–4 times per year to protect the joint.
- Some people feel mild soreness for 1–2 days after the shot — icing the area can help.
- You may be asked to continue physical therapy or exercises to strengthen the shoulder.
- A follow-up visit helps track how well the injection is working.
What are the potential risks for a Shoulder Steroid Injection?
Most side effects are mild and short-term, such as:
- Temporary soreness or bruising at the injection site.
- A “steroid flare” — increased pain for a day or two.
- Skin thinning or lightening around the injection site.
- High blood sugar (especially in people with diabetes).
Less common risks include:
- Infection in the joint.
- Damage to cartilage with repeated injections..
- Rare allergic reaction.
Are there related tests to a Shoulder Steroid Injection?
- X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans may be done beforehand to check the shoulder joint.
- Your doctor may do a physical exam to pinpoint the cause of pain.
- In some cases, joint fluid may be removed and tested if there’s concern about infection or gout.
Providing specialized neurological and pain management care with a patient-centered approach. Dr. Sader combines clinical expertise with compassionate care to help patients achieve optimal health outcomes.
