SHOULDER PAIN & ARTHRITIS

Shoulder pain, caused by arthritis or injury, can often be treated with medication or therapy. However, surgery may be necessary when these methods fail to relieve pain and restore function. Knowing when surgery is needed helps in making informed treatment decisions.

The shoulder is a flexible joint, prone to conditions like arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of shoulder pain, where the cartilage breaks down. This results in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Early treatment can manage symptoms effectively.

Other causes of shoulder pain include:
Rotator Cuff Tears: Injury to the tendons that help stabilize the shoulder.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Compression of the tendons in the shoulder.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Stiffening and loss of motion in the shoulder joint.

Surgery may needed when medications, physical therapy, and injections fail to provide relief or when the condition significantly impacts daily activities. Here are some key signs that surgery might be the best option:

1. Persistent Pain Despite Conservative Treatment

   If you’ve tried physical therapy, medications, and injections, but the pain persists and limits, surgery may restore shoulder function.

2. Severe Joint Damage

   If arthritis or an injury has caused severe damage to the shoulder joint, surgery may be required to repair the damage and prevent further complications.

3. Loss of Range of Motion

   When shoulder pain limits your range of motion and affects your ability to move your arm, surgery can help restore mobility and relieve discomfort.

4. Chronic Inflammation and Swelling

   If inflammation and swelling in the shoulder do not improve with non-surgical treatments, surgery may reduce inflammation and relieve pressure.

5. Failed Non-Surgical Treatments

   If conservative treatments don't improve symptoms, surgery may be recommended.

Arthroscopy
A minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera to guide the surgeon in repairing torn cartilage, tendons, or ligaments in the shoulder joint.

Shoulder Replacement Surgery (Arthroplasty)
In cases of advanced arthritis or joint degeneration, shoulder replacement surgery may be recommended. The damaged joint is replaced with an artificial joint to restore function and reduce pain.

Rotator Cuff Surgery
For individuals with torn rotator cuffs, surgery may be necessary to repair the tendons and restore full range of motion.

Shoulder Fusion (Arthrodesis)
In cases of severe arthritis or joint instability, the shoulder may be fused to reduce pain and improve stability.

Recovery time after shoulder surgery varies depending on the procedure, but physical therapy plays a key role in regaining strength and mobility. Most patients can expect a gradual return to daily activities, with full recovery taking several months. Following your surgeon's instructions and attending follow-up appointments are crucial for optimal results.

At SIMS Hospital, we offer advanced treatment options for shoulder pain and arthritis, including minimally invasive surgeries and personalized care plans. Our expert orthopedic surgeons specialize in shoulder conditions and are dedicated to providing the best outcomes for our patients.

Consult our orthopedic specialists at SIMS Hospital to discuss your shoulder pain treatment options and find the right solution for you.