Shoulder pain that returns after every round of physical therapy or cortisone injections can be frustrating and concerning. Many patients come to our clinic saying, “I thought I was better, but the pain came back after a few weeks.”
So, why does this happen?
The Root Cause Was Never Fully Treated
Pain relief is only one part of healing. In many cases, the inflammation subsides, but the structural issue — like a tendon tear, calcium deposit, or impingement — was never fully resolved. This leads to repeated flare-ups.
Common culprits:
- Partial rotator cuff tears.
- Undiagnosed calcific tendinitis.
- Subacromial bursitis from ongoing impingement.
The Injection Missed the Target
Many cortisone or PRP injections are done “blind” — without imaging. If the medication doesn’t reach the exact area of inflammation, the relief is incomplete and short-lived.
In my clinic, every injection is performed under real-time ultrasound guidance to ensure precision. We don’t guess—we treat what we see.
You’re Stronger… But Not Stabilized
Pain might go away after rest or therapy, but if the rotator cuff and scapular muscles aren’t properly reconditioned, the shoulder remains vulnerable. A small movement or poor posture is enough to cause a setback.
That’s why we work closely with physical therapists to build strength and stability after pain relief.
What You Can Do About It
- Get a precise diagnosis using ultrasound or MRI.
- Treat inflammation and the underlying structural issue.
- Follow a personalized rehab plan that focuses on long-term function.
- Don’t settle for temporary relief — aim for complete recovery.
Shoulder pain doesn’t have to be part of your routine. We use a combination of modern diagnostics and targeted treatments to help patients heal smarter and stay pain-free.