Stanford Interventional Spine Center

Shoulder Injection

What is it:                           
Shoulder injection is a procedure that targets the joint where the arm joins the shoulder blade.  A steroid medication is injected into the joint.  To ensure proper placement of the medication the procedure is done under fluoroscopy or x-ray.

Who Benefits:                    
Shoulder injection is useful for patients with arthritis, shoulder, shoulder blade and/or arm pain.

Purpose:                               
By placing a steroid medication into the joint it reduces the inflammation and thus alleviates your pain.

How is it Done:                   
First an IV is started and you may be given medicine for relaxation if you so desire.  Next, while lying on an x-ray table your skin will be cleansed and prepared.  Then a needle will be inserted into the joint.  An anesthetic and steroid medication is slowly injected into the area.

What to Expect:                  
During the injection pain will be increased temporarily.  Following the procedure you may experience some initial discomfort for about 2 to 3 days.  Once the medication reaches the inflamed area your pain should hopefully be relieved.

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This document was last modified: Monday, 26-Aug-2002 12:05:59 PDT
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