
If you have been suffering from pain in your shoulder, you may be considering a visit to a shoulder specialist Brisbane. Surgical treatments, such as total shoulder replacement, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, and joint replacement are all options for treating your condition. However, despite their wide range of expertise, a shoulder specialist may not be the best choice for your particular condition. These doctors are specially trained to diagnose and treat shoulder conditions using the latest methods, including arthroscopic surgery.
Shoulder arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed by a shoulder specialist to diagnose and treat certain injuries to the shoulder joint. This procedure involves making small incisions in the shoulder joint to insert a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, into the area. Once inside, the arthroscope sends images to a monitor that allows the surgeon to examine the damaged joint.
The arthroscopic procedure is usually accompanied by a thorough physical examination. This process includes X-rays and MRIs to diagnose the tear and assess the rest of the shoulder joint. However, there are risks involved with shoulder arthroscopy, including infection of the joint or surrounding nerves or blood vessels, and possible joint stiffness following the procedure. Anesthesia also poses a risk, though a trained shoulder specialist and anesthesiologist can address these concerns before surgery.
Rotator cuff tears
A rotator cuff tear can be a serious ailment, resulting in irreversible damage to the shoulder. As soon as the tear is discovered, the surgeon will proceed with surgical treatment. In some cases, the injury can be repaired surgically, while in others it will be impossible to perform surgery. Depending on the severity of the tear, the procedure may be performed under local anesthesia or under sedation. Most patients go home the same day of surgery.
Surgery is the most effective treatment for rotator cuff tears. While physical therapy may relieve pain and help with recovery, the tear is too large to heal by itself. If you have significant arthritis in your shoulder, the surgeon may perform a surgical procedure to remove the bone spurs and other deposits. Rotator cuff tears and shoulder specialist
Total shoulder replacement
Shoulder surgery is a relatively straightforward procedure and can be performed by an orthopedic surgeon. Depending on the level of the damage, it can take one to two hours. While you are under general anesthesia, you will be given a nerve block and monitored by a staff member. Your shoulder surgeon will also provide you with pre-operative instructions, including X-rays. Following the surgery, you will be in a recovery room for one to two days, performing a variety of gentle range-of-motion exercises.
Conventional total joint replacement surgery uses a metal ball and socket that replaces the arthritic surfaces of the shoulder joint. These components fit snugly into the strong humeral bone and are usually cemented in place with bone cement. This type of shoulder replacement allows you to move your arm as you would with your other joints. This type of surgery is most often performed on people with intact rotator cuffs and bone-on-bone arthritis.
Cortisone injections
Shoulder specialists often perform cortisone injections as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. These injections, which are not considered a cure, help alleviate symptoms and ease the rehabilitation process. They are especially useful in reducing pain and improving joint motion, muscle strength, and function. For more information about cortisone injections, contact your doctor or request a telemedicine appointment. Depending on the severity of your shoulder pain, your doctor may recommend a course of physical therapy before cortisone injections.
Patients should allow several days to recover from cortisone injections. In some cases, the pain from cortisone injections may last for days. During this time, patients may feel fever and chills. They may also experience a bit of fluid leaking from the injection site. Patients should contact their healthcare provider if these symptoms persist after the injection. Once the cortisone injection has worn off, patients should be able to regain full range of motion.
Non-surgical treatment options
If your condition is not as severe as a serious fracture, you can seek non-surgical treatment options for your shoulder. These options may involve the use of stem cells or Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections into the joint space. Most nonsurgical treatments are effective if you're proactive and persistent with your treatment. While there is no set recovery time for shoulder injuries Brisbane, most people find that the pain subsides within six to eight weeks.
Steroid medications are also effective treatments. These drugs are injected directly into the inflamed joint space or into the area surrounding an inflamed tendon. They reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Some injections may even be guided by ultrasound to help ensure a precise placement. Steroid injections may also help reduce inflammation and make the rehabilitation process easier. However, this is a costly option and many insurance policies do not cover it.
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