Do you feel a sharp pain when you lift your arm or stretch your shoulder? Maybe simple tasks like reaching for something on a shelf or getting dressed have become more difficult because of that nagging discomfort. If this sounds familiar, you’re likely dealing with shoulder pain – and you’re not alone.
In fact, more than 70% of adults experience shoulder pain at some point in their life. And it can impact their productivity by a few weeks to months.Â
If you’re looking for relief without going under the knife, cortisone injections might be the solution you need to reduce pain and restore your shoulder’s mobility.
Read on to learn everything about cortisone injections for acute and chronic shoulder pain.
Why Is My Shoulder Hurting?Â
Intense shoulder pain can be caused by various factors that can range from injury in the rotator cuff tendons to poor shoulder posture or abnormal shoulder movement tears.
The shoulder is a complex joint that allows for a wide range of movement, but this also makes it more prone to strain and injury.Â
If you’re experiencing discomfort, here are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain:
- Strains or tears in the muscles and tendons that support shoulder movement can lead to pain, especially when lifting or reaching.
- Wear and tear in the shoulder joint can cause inflammation and stiffness, which can lead to chronic pain due to shoulder joint bone spurs or similar conditions.
- Rotator cuff tendinitis, called rotator cuff tendinitis, can occur from repetitive movements or overuse of the shoulder. It causes inflammation in the tendons and results in shooting pain.
- Inflammation of the bursa (small fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint) can cause pain, particularly when moving the arm.
- Sports injuries or prolonged immobility can cause stiffness and a significant reduction in the range of motion (also known as a frozen shoulder).
Regardless of the condition and severity of pain, cortisone injections can offer relief while restoring the functioning of the joint. If you have had enough due to prolonged or sudden shoulder pain, contact Alliance Orthopedics to relieve pain.
What is a Cortisone Shot?
Cortisone injections are a popular treatment used to reduce inflammation and significant pain in various joints and soft tissues, including the shoulder. These injections contain a type of corticosteroid that mimics hormones produced by the adrenal glands that regulate inflammation and immune responses in the body.
Let’s explore the components of a cortisone injection:
Corticosteroids
The main active ingredient in cortisone injections is a corticosteroid, and it can be triamcinolone, methylprednisolone, or betamethasone. This steroid is responsible for reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response in the affected area.
Local Anesthetic
Many cortisone injections also contain a local anesthetic, such as lidocaine or bupivacaine. It helps numb the injection site to provide immediate pain relief during and after the shot.
Saline Solution
Saline (a sterile saltwater solution) is often included to dilute the corticosteroid and facilitate easier administration. It liquefies the steroid for ease of injection into the body.
The combination of these components makes cortisone injections effective for pain relief, helping patients regain mobility. These injections are safe and provide a minimally invasive alternative to extensive surgical procedures.Â
👉 Also Read: Understanding Cortisone Injections: Benefits, Uses, and What to Expect
How Cortisone Injections Relieve Shoulder Pain: The ProcedureÂ
Getting a cortisone injection is a straightforward procedure that typically takes place in a doctor’s office or outpatient clinic. Here’s what you can expect:
Step 1: Preparation
Before injecting the anti-inflammatory medicine, your healthcare provider will review your medical history and discuss the specifics of your shoulder pain. They may perform a physical examination to assess your condition and determine if a cortisone injection is appropriate.
Step 2: Positioning and Cleansing the Area
You’ll be asked to sit or lie down in a comfortable position, which allows easy access to the injection site. Your doctor may ask you to relax the affected shoulder to minimize discomfort during the procedure. The injection site will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of infection.
Step 3: Numbing the Area
If a local anesthetic is being used, your doctor will inject it into the skin around the injection site. This helps numb the area and minimize any pain you may feel during the actual cortisone injection.
Step 4: Administering the Cortisone Shot
Doctors use a thin needle to inject cortisone into the impacted area and surroundings, such as the shoulder blade and upper arm bone. You may feel a slight pinch or pressure during the injection, but it should be brief.
Step 5: Post-Injection Care
After the injection, your healthcare provider may ask you to rest for a short period to monitor for any immediate reactions. They will provide aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding strenuous activities for a day or two to allow the medication to take effect.
Cortisone injections offer an excellent solution to shoulder and other types of joint pain. After the injection, you can return to your everyday routine and continue enjoying your life without discomfort.Â
When to Consider Cortisone Injections for Shoulder Pain
Cortisone injections can be an effective treatment option for various types of shoulder pain, especially when other non-surgical methods have failed to provide sufficient relief.Â
Here are some in which you might consider cortisone injections:
- You have been experiencing a condition where shoulder pain occurs randomly and does not improve with rest or ice.
- You have a condition such as rotator cuff tendinitis, bursitis, or arthritis that has caused significant inflammation and swelling.
- It has become difficult to move your shoulder due to a rotator cuff problem which is impacting your ability to perform everyday tasks.
- Your healthcare provider has diagnosed you with a specific shoulder condition – such as a rotator cuff tear, carpal tunnel, or frozen shoulder.
The earlier you get cortisone injections, the sooner you can get relief from shoulder pain caused by rotator cuff tears or other conditions. These injections provide long-lasting relief from the symptoms without significant downtime.
Cortisone Injections May Be an Option for Shoulder Pain at Alliance Orthopedics
If you don’t want to learn more about surgical options and need instant relief from shoulder pain, choose Alliance Orthopedics to get cortisone injections. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you regain mobility and reduce discomfort through effective and personalized treatment options.
Whether you have sudden left shoulder pain or pain in any other area, don’t let it hold you back. We’re committed to offering patient-centered care and ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience from start to finish.
Make an appointment with us today to see if cortisone injections are right for you. We also offer physical therapy for faster relief and recovery from intense and mild shoulder pain.