For those folks dealing with shoulder pain, many wonder if an injection will help. For some, an injection may help but unfortunately for others it does not. There are conditions more likely to respond than others, however, there is no way to know for sure whether it will help the pain or not. That said, even if it does relieve the pain, the question is will it last? Again, that goes back to why the shoulder hurts in the first place.

First let’s discuss conditions it may help. If an injection is going to help very likely there will be what we call an inflammatory component…meaning some inflammation is present. If so, the hope is the steroid injection will reduce the inflammation and thus help with the pain. Often mild irritation of the rotator cuff or strain to the biceps tendon will respond (at least partly). Those with what is referred to as a frozen shoulder may also get relief, especially if highly painful. For individuals with a more significant rotator cuff injury or an arthritic shoulder, an injection may or may not help.

Regardless of whether it initially helps or not, will it last and solve the problem? The answer is truly unknown. As a result, the next best action is to address the REASON for the shoulder pain in the first place. Just living life and doing nothing different is unlikely to be the answer. The pain began for a reason and ultimately will need addressed or the pain is likely to return.

What is this path to eliminating shoulder pain?

Working with a muscle and joint specialist to address the reason for the shoulder pain in the first place. This may include working on range of motion, joint stiffness, muscle weakness, or even posture. There is no one best or only right posture, but repeatedly performing tasks or actions with the shoulder in suboptimal postures can result in strain and ultimately pain. Discovering these small items and working on them can lower the likelihood of pain returning following an injection. After all, who really wants an injection if it is not going to help in the long-term.

Understand there are conditions where even though the pain is reduced shoulder limitations may remain. There are no absolutes with injections. Again, this is where working with a specialist can be helpful.

If you are ready to get rid of your shoulder pain with (or without) an injection it is time to act. The pain very likely is not going away without some action.

Not sure of the next best step?

CLICK HERE to request a conversation with a shoulder specialist and learn how to relieve your shoulder pain.