SHOULDER

Do you have pain in your shoulder or arm? Does the pain bother you when you lay down to sleep? Is it painful to rotate your shoulder joint, or do you have muscle weakness? Shoulder pain can develop over time from normal wear and tear, but it is often caused by overuse or repetitive overhead movements in sports.

Your shoulder is a complex ball-and-socket joint. It is surrounded by strong ligaments and tendons, including the rotator cuff. These supportive structures can be sprained or strained, causing weakness in the shoulder.

To determine exactly what is causing your symptoms, you need an orthopedic evaluation of your shoulder, including X-ray and possible MRI. Once a diagnosis is made, a Southeast Michigan Center for Orthopedic doctor will create a custom treatment plan.

If the doctor suspects you have a torn ligament or tendon, he may recommend shoulder arthroscopy. This minimally invasive surgical technique is used to both assess joint damage and repair it in a single procedure.

For minor injuries, shoulder rehabilitation includes limiting movement with a sling and managing the pain and swelling while it heals. In extreme cases of shoulder arthritis or injury, the doctors can perform a shoulder replacement.

Physical therapy can work to strengthen the shoulder muscles and stabilize the joint for long-lasting benefits, even after surgery. Keeping your shoulder strong will be essential for preventing re-injury if you intend to return to the activities that caused your shoulder pain in the first place.

Shoulder pain is an indication that something within the joint is inflamed or damaged. The pain will not go away without treatment, but that does not mean you need surgery.

The team of doctors at Southeast Michigan Center for Orthopedics have fixed many shoulders in their careers and will help you, too. Call (248) 792-9881.