When Do I Need Shoulder Surgery?
Up to 5% of Americans experience symptoms relating to decreased range of motion in the shoulder and upper arm. Shoulder pain may develop after a traumatic injury, or the symptom may build up over time after repetitive use of the upper arms and shoulders. Countless patients can manage symptoms with physical therapy, but surgical intervention is a helpful option when the body doesn’t respond to stretching and medication. Know when to ask an orthopedic surgeon about arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
Causes of shoulder pain
The root cause of shoulder pain may be a condition called adhesive capsulitis. Often caused by sports injuries or age, adhesive capsulitis quickly sets in after trauma to the ligament. Adhesive capsulitis, colloquially known as frozen shoulder, happens when the membrane within the shoulder swells, thickens, and contracts. The membrane gradually increases in size, leaving less space for the upper arm and shoulder to move freely. Increased friction and lowered range of motion lead to pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility. Patients with preexisting inflammatory conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders are at a higher risk of developing adhesive capsulitis.
Remember to stretch
Before considering any surgical procedure, patients should plan to treat the immobile joint with several alternative treatments. Some doctors recommend a mixture of medication and physical therapy, focusing on progressive stretching to gradually restore range of motion. Over-the-counter options such as oral anti-inflammatories, pain medication, and corticosteroid injections can manage pain levels and boost flexibility throughout the shoulder joint. When caught early, minor shoulder injuries can often be managed effectively with nonsurgical treatment options. To maximize the benefits of physical therapy, patients should set aside an hour a day for gentle stretching and movement.
When surgery is needed
In stubborn cases of stubborn joints, the best option is surgical intervention. By manipulating the joint under anesthesia, doctors force movement of the shoulder while the patient is asleep. The doctors’ interventions cause the joint capsule to tear or loosen, allowing the shoulder to move freely following the procedure. In some cases, surgeons also perform arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs, which involve cutting through the frozen capsule with tiny, arthroscopic cuts. Arthroscopic surgery is performed using tiny surgical tools inserted through small incisions. To achieve the best results from surgery, surgeons may use a combination of both techniques.
A pain-free future
Shoulder injuries are common, but many Americans find relief with a diverse set of management strategies. In cases of minor injuries, pain responds well to physical therapy and over-the-counter medications. Many doctors may advise trying noninvasive treatments for several weeks before choosing surgery. When the joint remains immobile after alternative treatments, surgical intervention such as arthroscopic rotator cuff repair can restore movement to the area. No matter the type of treatment, countless patients can experience relief from shoulder pain.
