Most people don’t realize how much they use their shoulder. . .until, they experience symptoms associated with an injury or arthritis. Shoulder pain, swelling and weakness can be aggravating, annoying and limiting. Thus, it’s important that patients know what treatment options are available and effective. Corticosteroid injections are a non-surgical treatment option that can provide fast acting, long-term symptom relief.

Corticosteroids for Shoulder Injuries and Arthritis

Corticosteroids, commonly referred to as just “steroids”, are synthetic medications that reduce inflammation. Due to their use across multiple medical disciplines, cortisone and prednisone are two common corticosteroids that patients are aware of.

Shoulder Injections for Shoulder Injuries and Arthritis

Corticosteroids can be injected into the shoulder joint or surrounding tissues, muscles and tendons. Because the medications can be administered directly to the injured or arthritic area, they are able to quickly and effectively reduce inflammation, pain and swelling. 

These corticosteroids work by mimicking a naturally occurring chemical in the body called “cortisol”.  Cortisol triggers a response by the body and immune system to reduce swelling in the injured area.

Results and Frequency

Results following injections are always individualized. The severity of the injury/arthritis is a key determining factor. Some patients report immediate, lasting symptom relief after one injection. Others may need two or more—which can be administered in three-month increments.

Administration 

Orthopedic surgeons are trained medical professionals who can properly administer corticosteroid injections. The procedure is short—usually less than a minute—and is performed in an examination room typically using ultrasound guidance.  Ultrasound can provide precision placement of the corticosteroid in the exact location the drug needs to be administered.  After the injection, patients are able to go home with minimal to no pain, swelling and/or bruising.

Contacting an Orthopedic Specialist

If you’ve sustained a shoulder injury or are experienced any of the symptoms of shoulder injury or arthritis, please feel free to contact one of our 5 Long Island offices to arrange an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.

A detailed medical history, thorough physical examination, and medical imagining studies will be used to accurately diagnose and treat your condition. If corticosteroid injections can help you, our specialist will provide you with all the information you need and answer any questions or concerns you might have. You’ll be in great hands and can expect symptom relief.