How painful is a cortisone shot in the shoulder?

During the shot

A cortisone shot in the shoulder is usually as painful as regular immunisation injections. The site of the injection and the size of the needle are two elements that can affect how painful a shot may be. It should come as no surprise that larger needles typically hurt more than smaller ones. However, your doctor might also apply an anaesthetic spray to numb the area of the shot where the needle will be inserted. Thus only some pressure is felt upon the insertion of the needle.

After the shot

The site of the shot may be tender and painful for a few days, similar to the after-effects of taking any jabs. Avoid any heavy lifting with the arm until the pain subsides. However, what is important is to monitor for signs of infection. Pain out of proportion, redness, swelling, and fever should all be immediately reported to your doctor.

Corticosteroid shots are used when shoulder pain is significant and has not reduced by over-the-counter medications. Although the injection may be uncomfortable, the treatment should be worth it to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder, so you can continue with your rehabilitation exercises effectively. 

Are You Suffering from Shoulder Pain?  Download Reflex: Shoulder Mobility App

Shoulder pain can be all-consuming. Recovery can seem so far away without having the tools to track your progress, or know that you’re doing the right exercises. Reflex if your physio in your pocket. Accurately measure your shoulder range of motion without visiting a clinic.

Image shows iOS app for measuring shoulder range of motion after broken shoulder
Reflex is an iOS app that allows you to measure and track your shoulder’s range of motion. You can use Reflex to see how a cortisone shot affects the range of motion in your shoulder.

 

 

More on Cortisone Shots

1. What happens if a cortisone shot in the shoulder doesn’t work?

2. How long does a cortisone shot last in the shoulder?

3. Side effects of a cortisone shot in the shoulder

4. How soon can I exercise after a cortisone injection in the shoulder?

5. Will a cortisone shot help a torn shoulder labrum?

6. How painful is a cortisone shot in the shoulder?

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