frequent procedures
 

SUBACROMIAL INJECTION
Subacromial injection is done in the area below the acromion in order to localize the supraspinatus tendon that may be inflamed or toned, as well as infraspinatus tendon and other rotator cuff tendons.

INDICATIONS: The indications for subacromial injections includes subacromial bursitis, which usually results from supraspinatus tendonitis or infraspinatus tendonitis, or complete or partial tear of the rotator cuff tendons. The patients may also have a down sloping acromion that predisposes them to a compartment syndrome, which produces pain in bursa and inflammatory activity on the subacromial region, which necessitates this injection. The actual injection requires placement of a needle into the area of the supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendon, usually on the outer border or the distal half of the subacromial region itself. Initial local anesthesia and Depo-steroid is usually injected uneventfully with the patient in a seated position, resulting in significant reduction of pain and inflammation in these patients. The patient then is meant to undergo joint mobilization and exercise program with physical therapy, as well as some exercise program, producing significant rapid improvement in that pain source, as well as their function.

COMPLICATIONS: There are no significant complications with this procedure, though infection may still be a possibility, but rare.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Other than allergy to the medications injected, there are few contraindications to this procedure.

SEDATIVES: The patient does not require sedation for this quick, brief, and effective procedure.

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