Injections for Frozen Shoulder: Understanding Treatment Options

Frozen Shoulder Injections – Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the shoulder joint. While various treatment options are available for managing frozen shoulder, injections have proven to be a useful intervention, particularly for those dealing with persistent pain and inflammation. Below, we’ll explore the types of injections for frozen shoulder, their effectiveness, potential side effects, and when they may be necessary.

Types of Injections for Frozen Shoulder

There are several types of injections that can be used to treat frozen shoulder, with steroid injections being the most commonly used. Here are the main types:

1. Steroid Injections (Cortisone Injections)

Steroid injections are the most common type of injection for treating frozen shoulder. These injections contain corticosteroids such as cortisone, which help reduce inflammation and pain in the affected shoulder joint. The steroid is injected directly into the shoulder capsule where the inflammation is occurring.

• Effectiveness: Steroid injections are highly effective in reducing pain and inflammation, providing temporary relief for those struggling with the condition. They can help patients engage in physical therapy more effectively, as the pain is often reduced.
• Side Effects: While steroid injections are generally safe, they may cause temporary side effects such as skin thinning, weight gain, or increased blood sugar levels. Prolonged use may weaken the tissue in the shoulder joint.

1. Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections are less commonly used for frozen shoulder, but they may be considered when steroid injections are not effective or suitable. Hyaluronic acid helps lubricate the joint, which may reduce friction and pain, and improve mobility in the shoulder.

• Effectiveness: Hyaluronic acid injections are helpful in improving joint lubrication, which can reduce pain and increase range of motion, although they may take a bit longer to show results compared to steroid injections.

How Steroid Injections Help with Frozen Shoulder

Steroid injections for frozen shoulder are used primarily to reduce inflammation and pain. When inflammation in the shoulder joint is severe, it can cause the tissue to thicken and form adhesions, making the shoulder stiff and immobile. Steroids help by reducing inflammation, which in turn can ease pain and restore some movement. This is especially helpful in the early stages of frozen shoulder, when pain management is crucial.

Benefits of Injections for Frozen Shoulder

• Pain Relief: Injections, particularly steroid injections, offer quick pain relief, allowing individuals to move their shoulder and participate in physical therapy or exercises that can improve mobility.
• Improved Mobility: By reducing inflammation, injections help improve the range of motion in the shoulder, which is essential for preventing the progression of the condition.
• Short-Term Effectiveness: While injections may not cure frozen shoulder, they can provide significant short-term relief, allowing individuals to manage symptoms while pursuing other treatment methods, such as physical therapy.

The Cost of Frozen Shoulder Injections

The cost of frozen shoulder injections varies depending on the type of injection, geographic location, and whether the injection is covered by health insurance. Cortisone injections typically cost between $100 to $300 per injection, and most patients require one or two injections over the course of treatment. Hyaluronic acid injections may cost more, ranging between $300 to $500 per injection.

Best Injection for Frozen Shoulder

The best injection for frozen shoulder depends on the severity of the condition, the individual’s overall health, and their response to previous treatments. Steroid injections are generally the first-line treatment for managing pain and inflammation, especially for those who are in the freezing phase of frozen shoulder. However, for patients with chronic or recalcitrant symptoms, hyaluronic acid injections or even physical therapy may be recommended in combination with injections for better results.

Curapod and Frozen Shoulder Treatment

While injections provide significant relief, they are just one part of the treatment plan for frozen shoulder. To speed up recovery and maintain mobility, Curapod, which uses electrical stimulation, can be integrated into the treatment plan. Here’s how Curapod can complement injections:

• Pain Relief: Curapod can help reduce pain and discomfort following steroid injections, providing ongoing relief as the shoulder continues to heal.
• Muscle Relaxation: Curapod helps to relax the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, improving range of motion and reducing stiffness, which is often a major symptom of frozen shoulder.
• Enhanced Blood Flow: By stimulating blood circulation, Curapod helps promote healing in the shoulder, reducing inflammation and supporting faster recovery from frozen shoulder.

Injections, particularly steroid injections, are a vital part of managing frozen shoulder, especially in the early and painful stages. They can provide significant pain relief, improve mobility, and assist in the healing process. However, they are not a permanent solution, and recovery is enhanced when combined with other treatments such as physical therapy and Curapod. Curapod, with its ability to provide electrical stimulation, offers an excellent complementary therapy for ongoing relief, faster healing, and improved mobility. If you’re suffering from frozen shoulder, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.

References (Cardiff Harvard Style)

1. Mayo Clinic, 2025. Frozen Shoulder: Symptoms and Causes. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frozen-shoulder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370892 [Accessed 28 February 2025].
2. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), 2025. Frozen Shoulder: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Available at: https://www.aaos.org/diseases–conditions/frozen-shoulder/ [Accessed 28 February 2025].
3. Spine-Health, 2025. Frozen Shoulder Treatment and Exercises. Available at: https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/shoulder-pain/frozen-shoulder [Accessed 28 February 2025].