The shoulder is a complex network of bone, joint, muscle, and tendons. The complexity of the shoulder can give us many benefits, but it also can cause unique problems when injury or deterioration occurs. There are some cases in which a shoulder replacement must be done to minimize pain and restore normal function. However, there are several nonsurgical treatments that can be tried first.
Physical Therapy
If the muscles or tendons in the shoulder are injured, physical therapy can often help minimize pain and restore function. While the muscles and tendons heal, you may be placed on lifting and movement restrictions. During this time, physical therapy can help rebuild the muscles and tendons and help them heal faster. Physical therapy can also be done after some healing has already taken place to bring back some mobility you may have lost.
Rotator Cuff Treatment
The rotator cuff is a network of four muscles that unite as tendons to keep the arm in the shoulder socket. This is one of the most common types of shoulder injuries. While surgery may be required to repair the rotator cuff, it is often a minimally invasive surgery compared to a shoulder replacement. Before undergoing the surgery for rotator cuff treatment, your doctor may want to try nonsurgical treatments such as immobilizing the arm and shoulder to promote healing followed by physical therapy. If these measures do not work to repair the joint, you may have to undergo minimally invasive surgery.
If you have had a shoulder injury and your doctor is recommending surgery, we will be happy to provide a second opinion. We are experts in shoulder injuries and deterioration, and can often provide additional treatments to avoid surgery completely. Contact us today for an appointment to get started.