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Shoulder Problems

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If you or a loved one are experiencing shoulder pain or limited range of motion, the orthopedic surgeons at WMCHealth offer a complete spectrum of services to help reduce pain, improve function, and increase range of motion. We understand how important quality of life is, and we provide the latest advancements in treatment to get you back to doing the things you love most.

How the Shoulder Joint Works

Your shoulder joint is one of the most moveable joints in your body. Because of your shoulder joint, you can move your arm around and position your arm and hand. 

Your shoulder joint connects the three bones in your shoulder: the collarbone (clavicle), the shoulder blade (scapula), and the upper arm bone (humerus). These bones are supported by your muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Shoulder Conditions

Shoulder conditions can occur for a variety of reasons, including injury or overuse. WMCHealth treats all shoulder problems, including:

  • Arthritis
  • Bursitis
  • Tendinitis
  • Fractures
  • Dislocations
  • Frozen shoulder
  • Torn rotator cuffs
  • Sprains and strains
  • Shoulder impingement 

How Are Shoulder Conditions Diagnosed?

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, your doctor will begin by asking about your current symptoms. These symptoms may include swelling, stiff muscles, or limited movement. Your doctor may also recommend an imaging test, like an MRI or X-ray, to confirm a diagnosis. These tests will create images of your bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, detecting any abnormalities or injuries in your shoulder joint.

How Are Shoulder Conditions Treated?

Treatment for shoulder injuries include nonsurgical and surgical options.

Nonsurgical Treatments

If possible, your shoulder pain treatment will most likely begin with one or more nonsurgical options. These may include:

  • Resting
  • Medication
  • Injections
  • Ice or heat therapy
  • Activity modification
  • Physical therapy (not only to reduce pain and inflammation, but to help strengthen weak muscles and help prevent further injury)

Surgical Treatments

If nonsurgical treatments don’t help to alleviate your symptoms, or your condition is severe, your doctor may recommend shoulder surgery.

At WMCHealth, we offer an array of surgical options, including arthroscopy shoulder surgery. This is a minimally invasive procedure that results in minimal pain and scarring. During this procedure, your orthopedic surgeon inserts a small camera (arthroscope) into the shoulder to examine and repair muscle tissue surrounding your shoulder joint.