Does My Shoulder Pain Need Orthopedic Care?
The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, which is necessary to allow you to move with such a wide range of motion, like lifting your arm above your head. Because of that, though, the shoulder is considered the most insecure joint, supported by ligaments, muscles, and their tendons.
If you’re experiencing loss of mobility in your arm, the inability to move your shoulder, pain or other shoulder problems, then it may be time to consult with an orthopedic surgeon.
What Orthopedic Care is Available for Shoulder Pain?
There’s a variety of different forms of treatments and care available for your shoulder pain, depending on where your pain is located. The treatment will vary if the condition is centered in the muscle – such as a rotator cuff tear – versus in the shoulder blade, or joint.
First, your orthopedic surgeon and shoulder specialist will need to run diagnostic tests and assessments, but your treatment could include, but is not limited to, one of the following:
Rotator Cuff Repair – this is a minimally invasive surgery to repair a torn tendon in the shoulder, but full recovery can take up to 6 months.
Capsular Release – this is a minimally invasive option to release a tight shoulder joint, allowing more movement at the shoulder joint. Recovery can take up to 3 months.
Proximal Biceps Tenodesis – this is the surgical reattachment of the tendon that connects the upper part of your biceps muscle to the shoulder. Recovery time can be up to 6 months.
Shoulder Stabilization – this is a minimally invasive surgery designed to stabilize the joint to prevent recurring dislocations. This will require physical therapy afterwards for up to 6 months.
Shoulder Labrum Reconstruction – this is the repair of a torn or stretched ligament so that it is able to hold the shoulder joint in place. Recovery can take up to 3 months.
How is Orthopedic Care Performed?
The how behind your treatment plan will vary depending on the specifics that your doctor identifies as necessary for your shoulder injury or pain. Your doctor will discuss the details, side effects, potential risks and recovery period before any treatment is given.
Alongside this, they will also explain any diagnostic procedures and tests they will need to run – such as a shoulder arthroscopy to see the joint clearly, or the Neer test designed to assess for possible rotator cuff problems and tears.
Get in touch with our team to discuss the specifics and have a custom treatment plan built for you.
What To Expect After Orthopedic Care
As mentioned, your treatment plan will be custom to you and your symptoms. Because of that, what you should expect after the treatment plan concludes will also depend.
This is a conversation that your orthopedic surgeon or specialist will have with you before any treatment takes place
Frequently Asked Questions about Orthopedic Care For Shoulder Pain
1. What kind of doctor should I see for shoulder pain?
An orthopedic doctor should always be your first choice when experiencing bone, joint or muscle pain. This kind of doctor specializes in the musculoskeletal system.
2. When should you get shoulder pain checked out?
If your pain has persisted for longer than one week, or is worsening when treated with rest and ice at home, then it’s time to seek medical attention.
