Soft Tissue Injection: Shoulder

Overview

This outpatient injection procedure relieves pain in the shoulder caused by bursitis, or inflammation of the bursa. A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between bone and muscles or tendons. Bursae are found near joints throughout the body.

Preparation

The patient lies down, and the shoulder is cleaned and sterilized. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the tissue at the injection site.

Pain Relief Injection

The physician inserts the needle and guides it into the affected bursa. A corticosteroid medication is injected into the joint to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

End of Procedure

The needle is slowly withdrawn, and the injection site may be covered with a small bandage. Extended pain relief usually begins within two to three days of the injection.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.