- 023-8218-2416
- info@physio-soton.co.uk
- 297 High Street, Eastleigh, SO50 5NB
- Opening hours: Mon - Fri 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00-15:00
Expert ultrasound-guided shoulder injections in Southampton and Eastleigh for shoulder pain, rotator cuff problems, frozen shoulder, bursitis and arthritis. No GP referral is required, with rapid assessment and treatment by an experienced musculoskeletal clinician.
Injection only offered if clinically appropriate.
Includes:
Physio Soton provides specialist ultrasound-guided shoulder injections at our Eastleigh clinic, serving patients from Southampton, Winchester, Romsey, Chandler’s Ford, Hedge End, Totton, and across Hampshire. No GP referral is needed. Most patients can be assessed, scanned, and treated in a single visit.
All shoulder injections are performed by Marek Czeladzki MSc, PGCert (Ultrasound), HCPC, MCSP, IP a Chartered Physiotherapist, Musculoskeletal Sonographer, and Independent Prescriber with over 15 years of clinical experience. As a qualified Independent Prescriber, Marek can assess, diagnose, and administer injection therapy without requiring a GP letter or consultant referral.
We offer corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, PRP, prolotherapy, Arthrosamid, and specialist procedures including hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder and barbotage for calcific tendinopathy all performed under real-time ultrasound imaging for precision and safety.
Book your shoulder injection consultation online or call 023 8218 2416
Injection consultation: £60.00
Ultrasound-guided steroid injection: £250.00 (consultation and injection at the same visit)
We regularly perform shoulder injection Southampton appointments for patients with:
The most appropriate injection type is confirmed following your clinical assessment and ultrasound scan, never chosen in advance.
Your visit always starts with a detailed clinical consultation to understand your shoulder problem fully. We discuss how your pain started, which movements are limited, previous treatment or scans, and your goals for recovery. A full physical shoulder examination is performed.
If required, we can carry out a diagnostic shoulder ultrasound scan during the same appointment to identify the exact structure causing your pain. Findings are explained in real time so you understand exactly what is causing your problem before any decision is made about treatment.
Once we have a clear diagnosis, we explain whether an injection is suitable, which type would be most effective, the expected results and timeframe, and the risks, benefits, and alternative options. You will never be pressured into treatment the decision is always yours.
If an injection is appropriate and you wish to go ahead, this can usually be performed immediately during the same visit. The procedure involves carefully cleaning the skin, using ultrasound guidance for precise and safe needle placement, and accurately delivering the medication to the exact problem area.
Our clinician will name the specific injection agent being used, the target structure, and the expected response before proceeding. Common agents include triamcinolone acetonide or methylprednisolone for corticosteroid injections, and Ostenil Plus or Durolane for hyaluronic acid injections, depending on the clinical indication.
The injection itself normally takes only a few minutes. Most patients describe the procedure as very manageable, and we talk you through every step to keep you comfortable.
Strict aseptic technique is used throughout all procedures. Informed consent is obtained prior to treatment, and full written information is provided.
After your shoulder injection, we provide clear personalised aftercare guidance what to expect over the next few days, when you can return to normal activity, how soon improvement should begin, and signs to watch for.
Recovery timeline by injection type:
| Injection Type | Pain Relief Begins | Duration of Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Corticosteroid | 5–7 days | 6 weeks to 6 months |
| Hyaluronic Acid | 4–6 weeks | 6–12 months |
| PRP / Prolotherapy | 4–8 weeks | Varies (tissue-dependent) |
| Hydrodilatation | Days (movement) | 6–12 weeks with physiotherapy |
| Barbotage | 2–6 weeks | Typically long-term |
Where appropriate, we also discuss rehabilitation exercises, physiotherapy support, and longer-term treatment planning to prevent recurrence. Follow-up can be arranged if your condition requires monitoring.
A 60-year-old female presented with severe, sharp pain in her left shoulder, with no history of trauma. The pain had come on acutely and was significantly affecting her sleep and daily function. She had initially been seen by her GP and prescribed strong anti-inflammatory medication, but this provided limited relief.
Assessment & Diagnosis
A full clinical assessment was carried out alongside a diagnostic ultrasound scan, which revealed large calcific deposits within the supraspinatus tendon (part of the rotator cuff). These deposits were extending into the subacromial bursa, causing significant irritation and pain.
Treatment
Based on the findings, we proceeded with an ultrasound-guided subacromial corticosteroid and local anaesthetic (lidocaine) injection during the same visit.
Outcome
The patient reported approximately 80% reduction in pain within one week, with a significant improvement in sleep and function. She also received targeted soft tissue therapy, which further supported recovery.
At 1-month follow-up:
If you are experiencing sharp or persistent shoulder pain, we offer a full clinical assessment, diagnostic ultrasound scan, and targeted treatment including injections where appropriate. In many cases, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment can be carried out in the same appointment.
At Physio Soton, we perform only ultrasound-guided shoulder injections. Ultrasound guidance means the needle is visualised in real time as it is advanced toward the target structure whether that is the subacromial bursa, glenohumeral joint, biceps tendon sheath, or acromioclavicular joint.
Research consistently shows that ultrasound-guided injections are significantly more accurate than unguided injections, with studies reporting accuracy rates above 90% for guided procedures compared to 50–70% for blind injections in the shoulder. Greater accuracy means the medication reaches the correct tissue which directly translates to better pain relief and fewer repeat injections.
Ultrasound guidance also allows the clinician to identify any unexpected anatomical findings such as a cyst, bony spur, or tendon tear that might change the treatment plan before any injection is given. There are no side effects associated with the ultrasound imaging component. It adds precision, not risk.
| Injection | Best For | Pain Relief Onset | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corticosteroid | Bursitis, frozen shoulder, impingement | 5–7 days | 6 weeks – 6 months |
| Hyaluronic Acid | Osteoarthritis | 4–6 weeks | 6–12 months |
| PRP | Tendinopathy, partial tears | 4–8 weeks | Varies |
| Prolotherapy | Tendon or ligament laxity, chronic instability | 4–8 weeks | Varies |
| Hydrodilatation | Frozen shoulder | Days (movement) | 6–12 weeks with physio |
| Barbotage | Calcific tendinopathy | 2–6 weeks | Long-term |
Corticosteroid injections deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory agent typically triamcinolone acetonide or methylprednisolone, combined with a local anaesthetic such as lidocaine directly into the target structure under ultrasound guidance.
Best for: subacromial bursitis, frozen shoulder, shoulder impingement, and inflammatory rotator cuff conditions.
Pain relief typically begins within 5–7 days and reaches peak effect at 2–3 weeks. Duration of benefit: 6 weeks to 6 months.
Most clinicians recommend a maximum of 3–4 corticosteroid injections per year in the same area to minimise the risk of tendon weakening.
See also: NICE Clinical Knowledge Summary — Corticosteroid injections for musculoskeletal conditions
Hyaluronic acid injections supplement natural joint fluid, restoring lubrication and reducing friction within the joint. We use clinically validated products including Ostenil Plus for shoulder osteoarthritis where appropriate.
Best for: shoulder osteoarthritis and glenohumeral joint stiffness.
Gradual improvement over 4–6 weeks. Typical duration of relief: 6–12 months.
Prolotherapy injects a dextrose-based solution into weakened tendons or ligaments to stimulate a healing response and strengthen connective tissue.
Best for: rotator cuff tendinopathy, chronic shoulder instability, and patients who have not responded fully to physiotherapy alone.
A full assessment and shoulder ultrasound scan is always completed before recommending this option.
PRP uses a concentration of the patient’s own platelets drawn and processed from a small blood sample injected into damaged tendon or joint tissue to stimulate natural healing.
Best for: rotator cuff tendinopathy and partial tears where physiotherapy alone has not achieved full recovery.
There is mild soreness for 1–3 days post-injection. Results develop gradually over 4–8 weeks as tissue repair progresses.
Hydrodilatation injects saline, local anaesthetic and corticosteroid into the joint capsule under ultrasound guidance to stretch the contracted capsule and restore movement. The procedure costs £495 and includes shoulder manipulation in the same session.
Best for: adhesive capsulitis, particularly in the freezing and frozen stages.
Read our full guide to hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder, including the evidence, recovery timeline and who it suits.
Barbotage is an ultrasound-guided procedure that breaks up and washes out calcium deposits in the rotator cuff tendons. The procedure involves needling the calcific deposit under direct ultrasound visualisation, irrigating the area to remove the calcium, and injecting a small amount of corticosteroid to reduce post-procedural inflammation.
Best for: calcific tendinopathy confirmed on diagnostic ultrasound scan. Barbotage with lavage costs £460 at our Eastleigh clinic, including the ultrasound-guided procedure and aftercare.
Research shows approximately 80% good-to-excellent outcomes at 18-month follow-up, making it one of the most effective non-surgical options available for calcific tendinopathy.
Shoulder injections are appropriate for many patients, but they are not always the final answer. If your symptoms do not adequately respond to a structured course of injections combined with physiotherapy or if imaging shows a condition that requires structural repair, such as a full-thickness rotator cuff tear or significant joint destruction we will advise you honestly.
In these cases, we can assist with a referral to a specialist shoulder surgeon. Our goal is always the right treatment for your condition, not simply another injection.
Who may benefit from a shoulder injection:
Who may not be suitable:
Patients with active joint infection (septic arthritis) injection is contraindicated; urgent medical assessment is required.
Concerned about needles? Under ultrasound guidance, the procedure is considerably more comfortable than a blind injection because the needle is placed precisely where it needs to be. Most patients describe “a quick sharp sensation, then brief pressure.” We talk you through every step before and during the procedure.
All shoulder injection appointments at our Eastleigh clinic are performed personally by:
Marek Czeladzki MSc, PGCert (Ultrasound), HCPC (PH83097), MCSP, IP Senior Chartered Physiotherapist | Musculoskeletal Sonographer | Independent Prescriber
Marek holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Ultrasound and completed intensive musculoskeletal ultrasound training under Professor Saulius Rutkauskas MD PhD — Vice-Chair of the European Society of Musculoskeletal Radiology (ESSR) Ultrasound Subcommittee. He has undertaken advanced cadaveric injection training and is a member of both the British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS) and the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM).
As a qualified Independent Prescriber, Marek has the clinical authority to assess, diagnose, and administer injection therapy without requiring a GP or consultant referral — meaning your entire care pathway is managed within our Eastleigh clinic.
“Every patient I see has usually been through months of trying to get the right diagnosis. My goal is simple: confirm exactly what is causing the pain using ultrasound, explain the options honestly, and deliver the right treatment at the same appointment where possible.” Marek Czeladzki MSc, PGCert (Ultrasound), HCPC, IP
Shoulder injections work best when they are part of a structured treatment plan not a standalone solution. At Physio Soton, every shoulder injection Southampton appointment is integrated with specialist shoulder physiotherapy to ensure pain relief leads to lasting recovery.
The injection reduces pain and inflammation sufficiently for you to begin rehabilitation exercises you previously could not tolerate creating a “therapeutic window” that is how injections most effectively support long-term recovery.
For many patients with bursitis, frozen shoulder, shoulder osteoarthritis, or calcific tendinopathy, injections can delay or eliminate the need for surgery. Where your findings indicate that surgical assessment may be needed, we will advise you honestly and can help coordinate a referral to a specialist shoulder surgeon.
Our Eastleigh clinic provides shoulder injection appointments for patients travelling from across Hampshire, including:
We are located at 297 High Street, Eastleigh, SO50 5NB — just off Junction 12 of the M3, with free parking nearby.
It depends on the cause. Corticosteroid injections work fastest for inflammation-driven conditions like bursitis, impingement, and frozen shoulder. Hyaluronic acid is preferred for osteoarthritis. PRP and prolotherapy are used for tendon healing and chronic instability. Arthrosamid provides longer-duration relief for osteoarthritis. Hydrodilatation is the most effective injection for frozen shoulder when physiotherapy alone has not restored movement. Your diagnosis on scan determines which is appropriate.
Most patients describe it as a quick sharp sensation followed by brief pressure similar to a blood test. Ultrasound guidance makes the procedure significantly more comfortable than blind injections, as the needle is placed precisely where it needs to go. A mild ache for 24–48 hours afterwards is normal and typically managed with paracetamol or ibuprofen. Severe or prolonged pain after the procedure is uncommon contact us if this occurs.
Yes, when performed by a trained clinician under ultrasound guidance and strict aseptic technique. Common temporary side effects include soreness at the injection site and a 24–48 hour pain flare. Less common: temporary skin changes, raised blood sugar in diabetic patients, or very rarely infection. We recommend no more than 3–4 corticosteroid injections per year in the same area to minimise the risk of tendon or cartilage weakening.
This depends entirely on your diagnosis, confirmed by ultrasound scan at your appointment. The most common sites are the subacromial space (for bursitis and impingement), the glenohumeral joint (for osteoarthritis and frozen shoulder), and directly into the biceps tendon sheath (for biceps tendinopathy). Barbotage targets the calcium deposit within the rotator cuff tendon. All sites are visualised in real time under ultrasound before the needle is advanced.
Not always. For many cases of rotator cuff tendinopathy, postural shoulder pain, or mild impingement, structured shoulder physiotherapy is more effective long-term. Injections are most useful when pain is severe enough to prevent rehabilitation, or when the condition is predominantly inflammatory. The best outcomes typically come from combining both an injection to reduce pain, followed by physiotherapy to address the underlying cause and prevent recurrence.
Usually yes, but not immediately. If a local anaesthetic is used, your shoulder may feel temporarily weak or numb. We advise arranging a lift for your appointment and waiting at least 30–60 minutes before assessing whether driving feels safe. Most patients can drive the same day or the following day once any anaesthetic effect has worn off. Always follow your clinician’s specific advice, as this varies depending on the agent used and your individual response.
No. You can book directly online or by phone. Our clinician is a qualified Independent Prescriber, meaning assessment, diagnosis, and injection therapy can all be arranged at our Eastleigh clinic without a GP letter or consultant referral. This applies to all injection types including corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid, PRP, prolotherapy, hydrodilatation, and barbotage.
Your appointment typically takes 45–60 minutes, which includes a full clinical consultation (15–20 minutes), ultrasound scan where indicated (15–20 minutes), and the injection procedure itself (5–10 minutes). You will be asked to remain at the clinic briefly afterwards before leaving.
For corticosteroid injections, most clinicians recommend a maximum of 3–4 per year in the same area to avoid tendon or cartilage damage. Hyaluronic acid, PRP, and prolotherapy do not carry the same frequency limitations and can be administered more regularly where clinically appropriate. We will discuss the optimal schedule for your condition at your appointment.
