Shoulder Pain Treatments
Shoulder replacement options
There are many causes of shoulder pain, and many of them will resolve on their own without treatment. Certain conditions, however, such as arthritis, tumors and traumatic injuries, will continue to cause pain indefinitely without intervention. Our orthopedic centers offer diagnostic services and treatment for a wide variety of shoulder injuries and chronic shoulder pain. Our goal is to help patients regain shoulder function and full range-of-motion so they can enjoy a more active, pain-free life.
Common shoulder problems and noninvasive treatments
Shoulder pain is often caused by tissue inflammation or arthritis. Surgery is a last resort treatment for these conditions, only to be used once other methods have failed. Before your physician recommends surgery, they should explore less-invasive treatments with you first.
The following are some noninvasive treatments for shoulder pain:
- Physical therapy
- Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication
- Trigger point injections
- Ice packs
- Rest
- Dietary changes
Total shoulder arthroplasty
Shoulder replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged joint tissue and bone with an artificial ball and socket. This treatment is intended to both relieve pain and restore function for patients with arthritis and injuries. Patients should notice a difference immediately after the surgery is over, though some pain is expected during post-surgery recovery. Most patients can resume light activities within two to three weeks. After six months, many patients can expect to resume normal physical activity, including sports and exercise.
Partial shoulder replacement (hemiarthroplasty)
Total shoulder replacement is not always necessary if only part of the shoulder has been damaged. IN partial shoulder replacement, only the damaged parts of the shoulder are removed and reconstructed with prosthetics. This surgery is less-involved than a total shoulder replacement, meaning patients can recover faster. After participating in physical therapy, patients should be able to regain full shoulder function once they recover.