Shoulder Injections in London

Shoulder pain is one of the most common reasons people see us. At LSRI, Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, uses ultrasound to find the exact source of pain and, where it is right for you, gives the injection under live ultrasound guidance into the right space.

Shoulder conditions we treat with injections

• Frozen shoulder
• Shoulder impingement and subacromial bursitis
• Rotator cuff tendinopathy
• Calcific tendinopathy (calcium deposits in the tendons)
• Arthritis of the shoulder joint, or of the small joint at the top of the shoulder (the acromioclavicular joint)

Shoulder injection options

• Steroid (cortisone) injection: into the subacromial bursa or the shoulder joint, to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Hydrodistension (hydrodilatation): for frozen shoulder, stretching the tight joint capsule under ultrasound guidance.
• Barbotage: for calcific tendinopathy, breaking up and washing out calcium deposits under ultrasound.
• PRP (platelet-rich plasma): sometimes considered for rotator cuff tendinopathy. The evidence is still developing.
• Hyaluronic acid injection: may be considered for shoulder osteoarthritis in selected cases.

Exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles, usually with a physiotherapist, are the main long-term treatment for most shoulder problems.

What to expect

1. Dr Sankaye reviews your symptoms and examines your shoulder.
2. Your shoulder is scanned with ultrasound, including while you move your arm.
3. You discuss the options and the evidence for each.
4. If you go ahead, the injection is given under ultrasound guidance.
5. You receive aftercare advice and should start or continue your exercises once the pain settles.

Why choose LSRI

• Consultant-led care from Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist with more than 20 years’ experience.
• Every injection is guided by live ultrasound, so it reaches the right spot.
• Diagnosis and treatment from the same specialist, at Harley Street or Harrow.
• No GP referral needed to self-pay, and all major insurers accepted.
• Private MRI from £375 per body part, reported by a consultant radiologist within 24 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Why use ultrasound for a shoulder injection?

The shoulder has several separate spaces. Ultrasound makes sure the injection goes into the right one.

How soon will I feel better?

Local anaesthetic can ease pain straight away. A steroid usually starts to work within a few days.

Can I have a scan and an injection at the same visit?

Often, yes, if an injection is right for you. Dr Sankaye will talk it through with you first.

Book an appointment

Call 0203 633 5040 or book online. Clinics at LSRI Harley Street (The Harley Street Hospital, 19 Harley Street, London W1G 9QJ) and LSRI Northwest London (Medic Care Direct, 62 Station Road, Harrow HA2 7SJ).

Last medically reviewed by Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, on 2 October 2026.