Orthopedic Specialists in Shoulder Pain
and Common Shoulder Problems

Medical History

The first step in the evaluation is a thorough medical history. You’ll first be asked some basic questions about your medical history and lifestyle, how and when the pain started, whether it has occurred before, and how it was treated. Distinguishing between an acute and a chronic problem is also diagnostically helpful.

Because most shoulder conditions are aggravated by specific activities and relieved by others, a medical history can be a valuable tool in finding the source of your pain.

Physical Examination

A complete physical examination includes inspection and assessment of your range of motion.  Your doctor will look for physical abnormalities, swelling, deformity, or muscle weakness, and check for tender areas.

Tests

Specific tests may be ordered to help identify the cause of your pain and any other problems.

• X-rays
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Electrical studies. Your doctor may order a test, such as an EMG (electromyogram), to evaluate nerve function

Shoulder pain can originate from many different factors; however, they typically fall into one of four categories:

1. Bursitis, tendon inflammation (tendinitis), or tendon tear
2. Fracture (broken bone)
3. Arthritis
4. Shoulder instability

Within these categories, there are a number of common shoulder problems:

• Rotator cuff tears
• Dislocation, labral tear
• Frozen shoulder
• Osteoarthritis
• Sports-related trauma

After your evaluation and imaging tests, your doctor will talk with you about your diagnosis and explain what treatments are available. Together, you’ll decide on a personalized treatment plan based on your diagnosis, activity level, goals, and preferences.

Typically, our shoulder doctors first recommend nonsurgical treatment options. Non-surgical treatments can provide relief of symptoms in some, but not all, people.

Physical Therapy and Activity Modification

Activity modification involves rest, altering your activities, and physical therapy to help you improve shoulder strength and flexibility. A physical therapist can teach exercises to help prevent reoccurring shoulder pain. Our surgeons refer to a special trusted team of expert therapists, who offer unparalleled treatment plans to ensure you receive the best possible results.

Medications

Your doctor may prescribe medication to reduce inflammation and pain. They may include topical ointments or anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen are often used for shoulder pain. In some cases, oral steroids may be prescribed, or cortisone shots can be given to relieve pain and inflammation.

Some of the variables that can affect the likelihood of successful treatment include the significance of the injury and the length of time you have been experiencing symptoms. Surgery may be required to resolve some shoulder problems.

The type of surgery you need depends on your injury. Surgery can involve arthroscopic surgery or traditional open procedures for larger reconstructions or shoulder replacement.  Open surgery is a traditional type of surgery but less common due to the success of arthroscopic “minimally invasive” surgical techniques that involve smaller incisions.  Aside from shoulder replacement, 95% of or our surgical procedures are arthroscopic.

Shoulder surgeries tend to be major procedures, so it will be a little while before you are completely pain-free. For a procedure that involves your rotator cuff, recovery can take months. Additionally, your shoulder surgeon may provide physical therapy options as well as medications to minimize the pain you feel.

Directly after Surgery – You will be able to go home as soon as your surgeon feels it is safe for you. Here’s what to expect:

• Monitoring your recovery
• Pain management. You will be given medicine to control your pain
• Home care is important. A few small pieces of equipment may be recommended for your home after surgery