Shoulder

Understanding Shoulder Anatomy and Its Function

The shoulder, a complex ball-and-socket joint, enables a range of movements. It comprises three main bones: the clavicle (collarbone), scapula (shoulder blade), and humerus (upper arm bone). These bones work together with muscles, tendons, and ligaments to provide mobility and stability. Our shoulders allow us to perform essential tasks such as lifting, pushing, and pulling.

However, this remarkable flexibility comes at a cost. The shoulder's instability makes it susceptible to various injuries and conditions. Common issues include shoulder tendinitis, arthritis, bursitis, rotator cuff injuries, and stress fractures. Whether these conditions are caused by repetitive motion injuries in sports, work-related tasks, or daily activities, they can lead to significant discomfort and reduced quality of life.

Surgical Options

Our shoulder surgeons perform surgical procedures tailored to address specific shoulder issues. Some of the most common include:

• Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: Minimally invasive surgery to repair tears in the rotator cuff.
• Arthroscopic Labral Repair: Targets tears in the labrum, a crucial cartilage in the shoulder joint.
• Total Shoulder Replacement: Replaces the damaged shoulder joint with an artificial one.
• Biceps Tendon Repair: Addresses issues with the biceps tendon, which can affect shoulder function.
• Shoulder Resurfacing: A less invasive alternative to total replacement, resurfacing involves placing a metal cap on the shoulder bone.

We prioritize exploring nonsurgical options whenever possible. These options may include physical therapy, medications, and other conservative treatments.

When is Shoulder Replacement Necessary?

Shoulder replacement surgery is considered when nonsurgical methods have been exhausted and significant symptoms persist. Signs that you might be a candidate for shoulder replacement include:

• Persistent pain or swelling around the shoulder joint that does not improve with other treatments.
• Limited range of motion or weakness affecting your daily activities, such as reaching, dressing, or driving.
• Ongoing discomfort when you move your shoulder despite medications, physical therapy, or other nonsurgical interventions.
• Previous shoulder surgeries have not provided relief.

To determine if shoulder replacement is the right option for you, it's crucial to consult with a specialized orthopedic shoulder surgeon. They can provide an evaluation and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on your specific condition.

Common Shoulder Conditions and Treatments

Shoulder pain can often be traced to four primary factors: inflammation, instability, arthritis, or fractures. Our orthopedic shoulder specialists are equipped to address these issues with both surgical and nonsurgical interventions. Some common conditions and their treatments include:

• AC Joint Separation: Injury to the acromioclavicular joint, often requiring surgery for severe cases.
• Biceps Tendon Rupture: Repairing or reattaching the torn tendon.
• Clavicle (Collar Bone) Fracture: Treatment may involve surgery for severe fractures or immobilization for minor ones.
• Labral Tear: Arthroscopic repair to fix tears in the shoulder’s labrum.
• Rotator Cuff Tear: Surgical repair to restore the torn rotator cuff.
• Shoulder Arthritis & Osteoarthritis: Management through medications, physical therapy, or shoulder replacement.
• Shoulder Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa treated with medications or injections.
• Shoulder Dislocation: Reduction and rehabilitation to restore normal function.
• Shoulder Impingement: Treatment options include physical therapy and, if necessary, surgery.

Nonsurgical Treatments

In many cases, nonsurgical treatments can effectively manage shoulder pain and improve function:

• Medications: Anti-inflammatories and pain medications can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Customized therapy plans designed to strengthen the shoulder, improve range of motion, and alleviate pain.
• Regenerative Medicine: Innovative treatments like PRP therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma) use your blood cells to promote healing in the shoulder joint.

Your Path to Recovery

Whether you are dealing with a chronic condition or recovering from an injury, the orthopedic shoulder specialists at Orthopedic Specialists are here to guide you through every step of your recovery. We leverage the latest technology and treatment methods to provide comprehensive care for all your shoulder needs.

If you're experiencing shoulder pain or have questions about shoulder procedures, schedule an appointment with Orthopedic Specialists today to start your journey towards a healthier, pain-free shoulder.