Steroid shot or nerve block: which eases shoulder pain better?

NCT ID NCT06735027

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study compares two treatments for shoulder pain caused by arthritis or rotator cuff problems: a steroid injection into the joint versus a nerve block. Forty adults with shoulder arthritis will be randomly assigned to one of the two treatments. Researchers will track pain levels and shoulder function over time to see which approach provides better relief.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

corticosteroid injection (methylprednisolone) and suprascapular nerve block (anesthetic)

What this could lead to

If this trial shows one treatment works better, it could give doctors a clearer choice for managing shoulder arthritis pain without surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with only 40 people, so results may not apply to everyone. Both treatments are temporary pain relievers, not cures.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

arthropathy osteoarthritis rheumatoid arthritis rotator cuff syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of Minnesota

    RECRUITING

    Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55414, United States

    Contact