What is a Shoulder Joint Injection?
A shoulder joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure designed to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder. It is often recommended for patients with arthritis, rotator cuff injuries, bursitis, or shoulder pain that has not responded to physical therapy or medications. By placing medication directly into the joint, injections can improve function and help restore comfort and mobility.
Why We Use Ultrasound Guidance
At Vitality Health Center, all shoulder joint injections are performed with real-time ultrasound guidance. This advanced imaging technique allows us to:
- Visualize the shoulder joint and surrounding tendons and ligaments
- Ensure precise placement of the needle into the joint space
- Increase safety and accuracy of the procedure
- Deliver medication exactly where it is needed for the best results
Conditions Treated
Shoulder joint injections may be recommended for:
- Osteoarthritis of the shoulder
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Rotator cuff injuries and tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Post-injury or chronic shoulder pain
What to Expect During the Procedure
- The shoulder area is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Using ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is advanced into the joint space.
- A combination of corticosteroid and anesthetic medication is injected.
- The procedure takes only a few minutes, and patients can leave shortly afterward.
Benefits of Shoulder Joint Injections
- Provides targeted pain relief
- Reduces inflammation and stiffness
- Improves range of motion and shoulder function
- Minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment option
- May help identify the shoulder joint as the source of pain
Aftercare
Mild soreness at the injection site is common but typically resolves quickly. Patients should limit heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24 hours. Pain relief often begins within a few days and may last weeks to months, depending on the condition being treated.
If shoulder pain is interfering with your daily activities, schedule a consultation today to learn if a shoulder joint injection can help you.