Physical therapy can be just as effective as steroid injections
- Greg Bailen
- Jan 8, 2023
- 1 min read
Effect of corticosteroid injections versus physiotherapy on pain, shoulder range of motion and shoulder function in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis (S Afr J of Physiother, 2016)

Systematic review/meta-analysis of 3 studies that included a combined 452 participants
All participants had been diagnosed with shoulder impingement
Ranged from tendinitis/bursitis to partial rotator cuff tears
All studies looked at a comparison of cortisone injection alone versus physical therapy alone
The review looked at range of motion, function and pain outcomes from 1 month, to 3 months, to 6 months to a year.
Results: no difference in pain, function or range of motion in short-, medium- or long-term results between either groups
Conclusion: Physical therapy can provide the same results as steroid injections without the potential long-term side effects or harm to the tendons/ligaments of the shoulder.
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