Intra-Articular Shoulder Joint Injection

An intra-articular shoulder joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure where medication is injected directly into the shoulder joint space. The goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve range of motion caused by various shoulder conditions. Typically, the injection contains a combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid (a powerful anti-inflammatory medicine).

Injections are often part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes physical therapy and activity modification.

Your provider may recommend this injection if you suffer from:

• Shoulder arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Rotator cuff injury or tendinopathy
• Labral tears
• Shoulder impingement syndrome
• Post-surgical shoulder stiffness or pain

The injection helps by decreasing inflammation inside the joint, allowing for better mobility and less pain.

• The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting.
• You will be seated or lying down with the shoulder exposed.
• The skin over the shoulder is cleaned and sterilized.
• A local anesthetic may be used to numb the area.
• Using ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a thin needle is inserted directly into the shoulder joint space.
• A mixture of corticosteroid and local anesthetic is injected.
• The entire procedure usually takes about 15–20 minutes and you can go home shortly afterward.

• You may feel immediate numbness or relief from the local anesthetic, which may wear off after a few hours.
• Steroid medication typically begins reducing inflammation within 2–5 days.
• Some mild soreness or heaviness at the injection site is normal for 24–48 hours.
• Apply ice packs and limit overhead or strenuous activities with the shoulder for 1–2 days post-procedure.
• Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved shoulder movement over the next several weeks.

Intra-articular shoulder injections are generally safe. Rare but possible side effects include:

• Temporary increased shoulder pain after the injection
• Bruising or mild swelling at the injection site
• Infection (very rare)
• Allergic reaction to the medication (extremely rare)
• Tendon weakening if multiple steroid injections are used over time

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we use advanced guidance techniques to ensure safe, accurate, and effective injections.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah because we offer:

• Board-certified specialists experienced in shoulder pain management
• Ultrasound and fluoroscopy-guided precision injections
• Comprehensive treatment plans to maximize recovery
• Minimally invasive options to reduce pain and avoid surgery

Our goal is to restore your shoulder health, improve your comfort, and get you back to doing what you love.