SHOULDER
Shoulder pain is one of the most common complaints seen in an Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine office. In the shoulder joint there are bones, ligaments, tendons, labrum and capsules, all of which can sustain injuries. These injuries can result from an acute trauma such as sports injuries or a motor vehicle accident (MVA). They can also be work related, caused by a slip and fall, or overuse. The symptoms of such injuries can include pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, inability to raise the arm, and pain while sleeping.
Common Causes of Shoulder Pain
Rotator Cuff Tears
Tendonitis
Instability
Dislocations
Labral Tears
SLAP Tears
Biceps Tendinopathy
Bursitis
Fractures
AC Joint Pain
Arthritis
Frozen Shoulder among Others
Treatment
The treatment plan varies based on factors such as the patient's age, the type, and severity of the injury. Typically, conservative management serves as the initial approach. Conservative treatments encompass physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and cortisone injections. However, surgery may be required for certain patients.
The most frequent procedure is shoulder arthroscopy, a minimally invasive, same-day procedure conducted through small incisions around the shoulder. Minimally invasive surgeries result in a faster recovery and increased patient satisfaction levels.