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Shoulder

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The shoulder is a highly mobile joint, allowing a wide range of motion. It consists of the shoulder blade (scapula) - Glenoid, and upper arm bone (humerus), along with multiple muscles, tendons, and ligaments. While this flexibility is essential for movement, it also makes the shoulder prone to injuries due to overuse, repetitive strain, sports activities, or accidents.

Common Shoulder Injuries

Icon Rotator Cuff Injuries – Tears or inflammation in the tendons supporting shoulder movement.

Icon Shoulder Dislocation – The upper arm bone pops out of the shoulder socket due to trauma.

Icon Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – Stiffness and pain due to thickened shoulder tissue.

Icon Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint).

Tendinitis – Irritation or inflammation of shoulder tendons.

Icon Osteoarthritis – Degenerative joint disease causing pain and stiffness.

Symptoms

Icon Persistent pain or discomfort

Icon Stiffness or reduced range of motion

Icon Weakness or instability in the shoulder

Icon Swelling, redness, or warmth

Treatment Options

Icon Conservative Care: Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.

Icon Injections: Corticosteroid or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections for pain relief.

Icon Surgery: Arthroscopy, rotator cuff repair, or joint replacement in severe cases.

Prevention Tips

Icon Perform shoulder-strengthening and flexibility exercises.

Icon Avoid repetitive overhead movements.

Icon Use proper techniques while lifting or playing sports.


Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications. If you experience persistent shoulder pain, seek medical attention for proper evaluation and care!

Common Shoulder Conditions
& Their Management

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Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

A condition where the shoulder joint capsule thickens and tightens, leading to pain and stiffness. It often develops gradually and progresses through stages.

  • Icon Symptoms: Gradual onset of shoulder pain, restricted movement, stiffness, and disturbed sleep due to discomfort
  • Icon Treatment: Physical therapy, pain management, steroid injections, and, in severe cases, manipulation under anesthesia or arthroscopic release
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Rotator Cuff Tear

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Tears can occur due to injury, overuse, or degeneration.

  • Icon Symptoms: Shoulder pain (especially at night), weakness, difficulty lifting the arm, and a cracking sensation with movement
  • Icon Treatment: Rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, PRP injection or surgical repair for complete tears
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Shoulder Dislocation

Occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of the shoulder socket due to trauma or instability. It can be partial (subluxation) or complete.

  • Icon Symptoms: Intense shoulder pain, visible deformity, swelling, and inability to move the arm
  • Icon Treatment: Immediate reduction (repositioning), immobilization with a sling, physical therapy, and surgery for recurrent dislocations
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Shoulder Osteoarthritis

A degenerative condition where cartilage in the shoulder joint wears down, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Common in aging individuals and those with previous joint injuries.

  • Icon Symptoms: Persistent shoulder pain, stiffness, loss of motion, and joint crepitus (grinding sensation)
  • Icon Treatment: Lifestyle modifications, pain management, physical therapy, steroid injections, and in advanced cases, total shoulder replacement. If rotator cuff tear present along with degeneration, then Reverse shoulder replacement is the choice.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to restore shoulder function and prevent complications. Consult a specialist for personalized care.

FAQ

How do I know if I need shoulder replacement surgery? +
If you experience persistent shoulder pain that limits mobility and daily activities, despite trying conservative treatments like medications and physical therapy, you may need shoulder replacement surgery.
Is there an ideal age for shoulder replacement surgery?+
Age is not the primary factor; the severity of joint damage and the patient's overall health determine the need for surgery.
How long will I need to stay in the hospital after shoulder replacement?+
Most patients stay in the hospital for 2 to 3 days following the surgery, depending on recovery progress.
When can I resume driving or sports?+
Patients can typically return to driving and light sports within 3 to 6 months, with gradual activity increase based on their recovery.
Why is rehabilitation important after shoulder replacement?+
Rehabilitation through physical therapy and targeted exercises is crucial for regaining shoulder strength, mobility, and long-term function.
How successful is shoulder replacement surgery?+
Shoulder replacement is a highly successful procedure, offering significant pain relief and improved movement. Implant survival rates are:
90-95% at 10 years
80% at 20 years
Will I feel the implant in my shoulder?+
Most patients do not feel the implant once healing is complete.
What if the implant loosens or causes an infection?+
In rare cases of implant loosening or infection, revision surgery may be required to restore joint function.

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