Shoulder Pain Specialist

What causes shoulder pain?

The ball-and-socket joint of your shoulder relies on a series of tendons and muscles to allow you to do everything from raising your arm above your head to rotating your arm to scratching your back. When an issue arises with any of the components that make up your shoulder, it can result in shoulder pain. 

Some of the leading causes of shoulder pain include:

• Tendon tears (rotator cuff tears)
• Impingement
• Inflammation in the tendons
• Fractures
• Arthritis
• Dislocations

Many of these shoulder problems stem from overuse. It's best to seek care when you begin experiencing pain, as early care generally requires less invasive treatments with faster, better results. 

How is shoulder pain treated?

Shoulder pain treatment depends on the cause of the pain. Evaluation begins with careful history and thorough examination of the shoulder. Additionally, we use diagnostic tools such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to determine the cause of your discomfort. Our surgeon then works with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.

For minor shoulder problems, your surgeon may recommend:

• Rest
• Icing the area
• Injection-based treatment
• Physical therapy
• Medication 

. 

What are my surgical options for treating shoulder pain?

At OrthoTeam Clinic, we offer the latest shoulder surgery options, including:

Shoulder arthroscopy

If you need shoulder surgery, we can perform certain procedures arthroscopically. During this minimally invasive type of surgery, your surgeon creates a small incision through which he feeds the arthroscope — a thin, flexible tool with an attached camera — to perform your procedure. We can perform the following shoulder surgeries arthroscopically:

• Rotator cuff repair
• Surgery for shoulder instability
• Surgery for shoulder impingement
• Superior capsular reconstruction

When you choose an arthroscopic procedure instead of open surgery, you experience less downtime and a reduced risk of complications.

Shoulder arthroplasty

If your shoulder requires arthroplasty (replacement), your surgeon and his team will explore your options with you. They offer the latest shoulder replacement techniques — like stemless total shoulder replacement and reverse total shoulder replacement. They will discuss those techniques with you, helping you choose the right procedure for your shoulder and your post-operative goals. 

To learn more about your options for relieving your shoulder pain, call OrthoTeam Clinic to schedule an appointment. 

Helpful Information:

Ortho Info - Arthritis of the Shoulder

Lift My Arm