Corticosteroid injection - #7308

For the past six months, I’ve been dealing with severe pain in my right shoulder, especially when I try to lift my arm. At first, I thought it was just a strain from working out, but it never really got better. I finally went to an orthopedic doctor, and after an MRI, they told me I have shoulder impingement with some inflammation in the tendons. The doctor suggested a corticosteroid injection to reduce the inflammation and help with the pain, but I’m hesitant because I don’t fully understand the risks and benefits. I’ve read that a corticosteroid injection can provide relief, but also that it might only be temporary. How long does the pain relief usually last? Does it actually help heal the problem, or does it just mask the pain? I’m worried that if I get it, I might feel better but then end up injuring my shoulder more without realizing it. Also, I’ve seen some people mention that a corticosteroid injection can weaken tendons if used too often. Since I already have inflammation in my tendons, could the injection make them more likely to tear? My doctor said it’s generally safe if done sparingly, but I want to be sure before I go ahead with it. Are there any long-term risks, like cartilage damage, if I get more than one? Another thing that concerns me is the side effects. I’ve never had a corticosteroid injection before, but I’ve read that some people experience increased blood sugar, facial flushing, or even insomnia after getting one. I don’t have diabetes, but my mom does, so I worry if this could affect me in any way. Also, I already have some mild anxiety, and I saw that steroids can sometimes make people feel restless or jittery. How common is that? If I don’t get the corticosteroid injection, are there other treatments that could help with the inflammation? I’ve been doing physical therapy for a few weeks now, and while it helps a little, the pain is still there. Icing the area gives some relief, but only for a short time. Should I just keep going with therapy and wait it out, or is the injection my best option to get back to normal function? I’d love to hear from anyone who has had a corticosteroid injection for a similar issue. Did it help long-term, or did the pain come back after a few months? And for those who skipped it, did physical therapy alone work? I just want to make the right decision before going through with this.