Shoulder and Elbow Surgery

What problems may require shoulder surgery?

The shoulder has a greater range of motion than any other joint in your body. Unfortunately, this flexibility leaves your shoulder vulnerable to a wide range of painful injuries and conditions that may need surgical treatment.

The expert team at West Tennessee Bone & Joint Clinic, P.C. treats all types of shoulder issues, including:

Rotator cuff tears

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons that allow you to lift and rotate your arm. Rotator cuff tears often resolve with nonsurgical treatment. If the pain continues, a surgical procedure like arthroscopic rotator cuff repair may be necessary.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can damage the shoulder joint and surrounding tissues. If arthritis of the shoulder causes severe pain and limited range of motion, your surgeon may recommend a shoulder replacement.

Fractures

If a bone breaks into fragments or becomes displaced, you may need surgery to repair it. Severe fractures may require a shoulder joint replacement.

Bursitis or tendinitis

Bursitis and tendinitis cause shoulder pain and inflammation. These injuries may occur with overuse from repetitive arm motions like weightlifting, painting, or swimming.

Instability

Shoulder instability, which involves repeated dislocations, often requires surgical repair. Outpatient arthroscopic surgery is a common treatment for instability. 

What problems may require elbow surgery?

Elbow pain is a common problem, especially among people who participate in sports like baseball, tennis, and golf. Conditions that may require elbow surgery include:

• Fractures
• Arthritis
• Golfer’s elbow
• Tennis elbow
• Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears

Osteochondritis dissecans, which develops when a small segment of bone detaches due to a lack of blood flow, is another problem that may need elbow surgery. This condition is often seen in gymnasts and throwing athletes.

What should I expect from shoulder or elbow surgery?

First, the team at West Tennessee Bone & Joint Clinic, P.C. performs a thorough exam and reviews your medical history. They may take an on-site X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to further evaluate your shoulder or elbow and create a treatment plan.

If nonsurgical treatment like physical therapy isn’t effective, they may recommend surgery. The team uses minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. They also have a state-of-the-art ambulatory surgery center and expert physical therapists to assist with your postsurgical recovery.

For expertise in shoulder and elbow surgery, call West Tennessee Bone & Joint Clinic, P.C., or book an appointment online today.