Shoulder pain can be debilitating and can limit your ability to perform everyday activities or even participate in sports. While rest, physical therapy, and other non-invasive treatments can provide relief for mild shoulder pain, more severe cases may require a shoulder pain injection. This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting medication directly into the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
If you're considering a shoulder pain injection, it's important to understand what it involves, how it works, and what to expect during and after the procedure. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about shoulder pain injections, from their effectiveness to potential risks and side effects, so you can make an informed decision about your treatment options.
What is a shoulder pain injection and how does it work?
A shoulder pain injection is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting medication directly into the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. The injection is administered using a needle and syringe under the guidance of ultrasound to ensure accurate placement of the medication. The entire procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes, and patients can usually go home shortly after the injection.
The medication in the injection works by reducing inflammation in the shoulder joint, which is often the cause of shoulder pain.
By reducing inflammation, the shoulder joint can move more freely and without pain, allowing patients to regain their range of motion and perform everyday activities with greater ease. While the local anaesthetic provides immediate pain relief, the corticosteroid may take several days to take effect and can provide pain relief for several weeks to several months.
There are several types of shoulder pain injections available, each with its own specific use and benefits. The most common types of shoulder pain injections are:
Corticosteroid injections: These injections contain a corticosteroid, which helps to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as rotator cuff injuries, shoulder bursitis, and adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).
Hyaluronic acid injections: These injections contain hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body that helps to lubricate the joints. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as osteoarthritis and can provide long-lasting pain relief.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: These injections use a patient's own blood, which is processed to concentrate the platelets, growth factors, and other healing components. The resulting mixture is then injected into the shoulder joint to promote healing and reduce inflammation. PRP injections are commonly used to treat conditions such as rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, and osteoarthritis.
Prolotherapy injections: These injections use a solution of dextrose and other natural substances to stimulate the body's natural healing processes. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as chronic tendonitis and can provide long-lasting pain relief.
The specific type of injection recommended for your shoulder pain will depend on the underlying condition and your individual needs. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your symptoms and medical history to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
What should I do after receiving a shoulder pain injection?
After receiving a shoulder pain injection, it is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful recovery. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
Rest: It is important to rest the affected shoulder for at least 24-48 hours after the injection. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during this time.
Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Use an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Medication: Your healthcare provider may recommend over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help manage pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy: Depending on the underlying condition and your individual needs, your healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy to help restore strength and flexibility to the affected shoulder.
Follow-up: Your healthcare provider may schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and determine if additional treatments are necessary.
It is important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms after the injection, such as fever, increased pain or swelling, or difficulty breathing. While complications are rare, they can occur, so it is important to seek prompt medical attention if necessary.
Why Choose Kent MSK Clinic?
Our clinic is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to patients suffering from shoulder pain. Our team of healthcare professionals has extensive experience in administering shoulder pain injections and uses the latest techniques and technology to ensure accurate placement of the medication.
We take a personalized approach to treatment, working closely with each patient to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs and goals. Our goal is to provide safe, effective, and compassionate care to help patients regain their range of motion and live a pain-free life. For more information on our services, check out our website or call us at 01634500234.
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