Shoulder problems can make everyday tasks difficult and painful. Picking up a child, reaching for something on a shelf or playing a game of catch in the yard can all feel like a chore if you’re suffering from a shoulder condition or injury. At Beaumont, our orthopedic shoulder specialists offer a full range of treatments for shoulder problems – no matter what your age or condition.
Each shoulder injury is unique
We treat even the most complex cases with advanced technologies, from minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques to total joint replacement to repairing complicated fractures. Our orthopedic shoulder surgeons have specialized training and a wealth of experience to provide you with the right treatment at the right time. Our goal is to help you achieve maximum performance without pain – whether you’re 18 or 108 and whether you’re an athlete or someone who prefers to watch the game.
A comprehensive program catered to you and your needs
At Beaumont, we have a shoulder program with a comprehensive approach to both common and rare shoulder conditions. We offer the reverse ball-and-socket total shoulder replacement surgery, which is designed for patients with severe pain from arthritis and torn rotator cuffs. Beaumont is well known as a leader in joint replacement and repair procedures, performing many shoulder replacement surgeries every year.
Varied treatment plans for different ailments
Shoulder surgery can treat many problems, from rotator cuff tears to arthritis to instability to fractures. We also offer revision surgery for those who have had unsuccessful shoulder surgery in the past. Below is a partial list of common shoulder diagnoses we treat.
- Rotator cuff tendon problems, including inflammation caused by tendonitis, bursitis, or a tear
- Arthritis – This is typically a degenerative condition, but it can be caused by injury
- Instability – This is also known as dislocation; injury to the shoulder joint can result in ligament damage and a ball that slides out of the socket
- Fracture – Trauma can lead to a broken bone that requires repair
Shoulder education and research
Beaumont’s shoulder orthopedic surgeons are not only clinicians; they are also educators and researchers. Many of the surgeons teach medical students, orthopedic surgery residents and post-graduate fellows in the Beaumont Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery Fellowship. And through research, we help develop new approaches and technology and refine established techniques for shoulder treatment. We have the state-of-the-art Harold W. Gehring, M.D. Center for Biomechanics and Implant Analysis in the Beaumont Research Institute where shoulder specialists conduct research and testing and are involved in clinical outcome studies.
When should you see an orthopedic specialist?
Understanding shoulder pain and what to do about it can be difficult. Some conditions cause what’s called referred pain, which is pain felt in your shoulder that is due to something going on elsewhere in the body. For example, a heart attack can cause shoulder pain, as can neck issues and other health problems.
For shoulder joint pain, head to an emergency center if you:
- Have sudden pain in your shoulder
- Notice shoulder deformity
- Can’t lift your arm away from your body
- Have intense swelling
- Felt a pop after a fall or injury
- Have signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating
Many people who are experiencing shoulder pain decide to call their doctor when they have difficulty sleeping due to the pain. But you don’t have to wait that long. You should call to make an appointment if your shoulder is red or if it feels warm or tender when you touch it.
Treatment options
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, close to 90 percent of people who experience shoulder pain can get relief from non-surgical treatments. Some of those treatments include:
- Rest: Avoid repetitive motions involving your shoulder, and take it easy. Don’t overexert yourself. Try walking or jogging for exercise rather than tennis, golf, or cycling.
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers may work. Try them first. If they don’t work, talk to your doctor about other medications that might work for you.
- Ice and heat: Using ice and/or heat therapy can be effective to help relieve shoulder pain.
- Physical therapy: Shoulder pain can sometimes be reduced by strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint. Physical therapists can help with strength training and can also teach you stretches and warmups to help you avoid future injury.
Orthopedic shoulder surgeons at Beaumont
Our orthopedic shoulder surgeons care for patients with disabling shoulder joint disorders. We have an orthopedic laboratory that is dedicated to studying and testing new treatment options, so we truly are pioneering the treatments of the future right here in Michigan.
More than 10 years ago, Beaumont pioneered the reverse ball and socket shoulder. Due to the refinements in the procedure and the joint implant, surgeons all over the United States now use it for a number of complex shoulder conditions.
Connect with our orthopedic shoulder specialists
At Beaumont, our orthopedic surgeons are breaking new ground and pioneering treatments that improve the lives of patients dealing with shoulder pain and other orthopedic conditions. Whether you’re seeking help with an existing condition, you would like a diagnosis, or you are looking for help with recovery and rehabilitation, Beaumont joint pain doctors can help. Beaumont has orthopedic specialists who offer the treatments and services you need.
Call us at 800-633-7377 to make an appointment, or request an appointment online.