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Shoulder

Shoulder problems are extremely common and may occur as a result of sports or occupational injury, overuse, or degenerative/arthritic conditions. Patients commonly present to our office with pain, restricted range of motion, weakness, and or instability (the sensation that the ball is slipping out of joint).

 In many cases, nonoperative treatment options such as physical therapy, medication or injection may produce dramatic relief. Our physical therapists at The Orthopaedic Center work very closely with our physicians to guide patients through individualized rehabilitation programs. They are often successful in achieving relief of pain and improvement in function without surgery. but also play a very important role in patient recovery following surgery.

For those patients whose conditions require surgical treatment, our panel of physicians includes two fellowship trained shoulder specialists. Our surgeons and therapists have extensive experience in the treatment and rehabilitation of rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, arthritis and fracture care. We are also proud to be on the cutting edge of shoulder arthroscopy, and one of the most experienced with arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in the State of Ohio. In addition, we are the only center in the Tri-County area with physicians certified to perform reverse ball and socket shoulder replacement.

Consultation with a shoulder surgeon is recommended if you experience any of the following:

1. Night pain that interferes with sleep
2. Weakness or difficulty lifting or reaching overhead
3. Motion loss
4. Crepitus (sensation of catching, grinding or popping)
5. Instability (sensation that the ball is slipping out of joint)
6. Fracture of the clavicle, scapula or humerus.

Shoulder Conditions

Osteoarthritis  |  Rheumatoid Arthritis  |  Frozen Shoulder  | Labral Tears
Avascular Necrosis  | Fractures

Osteoarthritis - is the most common form of arthritis. It involves wearing down of the cartilage that covers our joints. The body responds by forming bone spurs and motion loss results. In the early stages, symptoms often respond to arthritis medication and activity modification. Arthroscopy may be of benefit to some patients with mild to moderate disease. For patients with "bone on bone" involvement, shoulder replacement is a reliable and effective means of achieving pain relief and improving range of motion.
 
Rheumatoid Arthritis - results from the body producing substances that cause joint inflammation and deterioration. It often affects more than one joint and is best managed with anti-inflammatory medications, special rheumatoid medications and selective injections. Joint replacement is often considered for advanced cases in which medications and/or injection are no longer of benefit.
 
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) - is the most common cause of motion loss in the shoulder. It is very common in diabetics (about 50% of cases) but can occur on its own (idiopathic) or in association with a number of medical ailments including injury. It usually runs a self-1imiting course in which pain gradually subsides and range of motion returns, however this may take a very tong time. In about 90% of cases, physical therapy is effective in speeding this process up. For refractory cases (less than 10%) your surgeon may suggest a manipulation under anesthesia or an arthroscopic procedure to release tight tissue.
 
Labral Tears - may occur as a result of falls, motor vehicle accidents, traction to the arm, or dislocation. The labral is a fibrocartilage ring that surround the socket and serves as the attachment site for several ligaments. Because the shoulder socket is shallow (much like a golf tee), the labral also provides additional depth, which helps to keep the ball centered. Labral tears can cause pain as well as instability.
 
Avascular Necrosis - occurs when the humeral head ("ball") loses a portion of its blood supply, resulting in collapse of the joint surface. This frequently causes pain, grinding, and motion loss. This most commonly occurs as a result of trauma, heavy alcohol intake, corticosteroid use or chemotherapeutic agents. In advanced cases, destruction of the joint surface results, and joint replacement may be necessary.

Fractures - about the shoulder girdle usually occur as a result of a fall, sporting injury, or car accident. Some fractures may be treated with a sling or a fracture brace while others require surgery. If you think you may have sustained a fracture, x-rays and a consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon is recommended.