The shoulder is a complex joint with an extremely wide range of motion. As a result of this range of motion it is the most commonly dislocated joint and can cause a significant amount of disability. Proper functioning of the shoulder requires a complicated synchronization of muscles, tendons and ligaments. Our doctors can help guide your shoulder back to normal function.
Rotator Cuff Tears
Arthroscopy is done through small incisions. During the procedure, your orthopaedic surgeon inserts the arthroscope (a small camera instrument about the size of a pencil) into your knee joint. The arthroscope sends the image to a television monitor. On the monitor, your surgeon can see the structures of the knee in great detail. Your surgeon can use arthroscopy to feel, repair or remove damaged tissue. To do this, small surgical instruments are inserted through other incisions around your knee.
Impingement
Patients often complain of pain to their shoulder with certain motions such as reaching overhead or across their body. This is a result of the narrow space in the shoulder for the rotator cuff to travel through. This condition called impingement can be treated with various therapies, injections and sometimes surgery.
Arthritis
Shoulder arthritis is a loss of cartilage in the joint through gradual wear and tear. Like arthritis of the knee and hip it can be very debilitating requiring many years of treatment. Ultimately when all modalities fail, a shoulder replacement is the best option for some patients.