Shoulder Issues

Biceps Tendinitis

Biceps tendinitis is an inflammation or irritation of the upper biceps tendon. This strong, cord-like structure connects the biceps muscle to the bone in the shoulder. Pain in the front of the shoulder and weakness are common symptoms of biceps tendinitis. They can often be relieved with rest and medication. In severe cases, an injection may be performed or surgery may be needed.

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Biceps Tendon Tear

Your biceps tendons attach the biceps muscle to bones in the shoulder and in the elbow. If you tear the biceps tendon at the shoulder, you may lose some strength in your arm and have pain when you move your arm. You can still function with a biceps tendon tear and only need simple treatments to relieve symptoms. A biceps tendon tear at the shoulder is a sign of the tendon being injured, and it may get better on its own.

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Dislocated Shoulder

The shoulder joint is the body's most mobile joint. It can turn in many directions, but this advantage also makes the shoulder an easy joint to dislocate. It is important to put the ball of the upper arm bone back into the joint socket. Severe pain stops almost immediately once the shoulder joint is back in place. You will be asked to rest the shoulder and avoid aggressive movements. Sometimes a dislocation may damage ligaments, tendons, labrum, or nerves, requiring further treatment. Once a shoulder has dislocated, it is more likely to dislocate again. Surgery may be necessary, especially after multiple dislocations, to repair tissue to better hold the shoulder joint in place.

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Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder can develop after an injury. You may also have medical conditions making you more prone to developing this condition. Over time, the shoulder becomes painful and stiff. After a period of worsening symptoms frozen shoulder tends to get better, although full recovery may take up to several years. Physical therapy is the primary treatment recommendation. If your symptoms are not relieved by therapy and other conservative methods, your doctor may perform injections or recommend surgery.

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Scapular (Shoulder Blade) Disorders

The scapula is a large triangular-shaped bone that lies in the upper back. It is supported by a complex system of muscles that work together to move your arm. If an injury or condition causes these muscles to become weak or imbalanced, it can make it difficult to move your arm, especially when performing overhead activities. Treatment usually involves physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and restore the proper motion of the scapula.

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Shoulder (AC) Separation

The most common cause for a shoulder separation is a fall directly onto the shoulder. The fall injures the ligaments that surround and stabilize the acromioclavicular joint. If the force is severe enough, the ligaments attaching to the underside of the clavicle are torn. This causes the separation of the collarbone and the shoulder blade. Nonsurgical treatments, such as a sling, cold packs, and medications can often help manage the pain. Surgery can be considered if pain persists or the deformity is severe.

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Sternoclavicular (SC) Joint Disorders

Injuries to the SC joint typically result from motor vehicle accidents or participation in collision sports like football. The SC joint can also be damaged over time, as the protective tissue that covers the ends of the bones gradually wears away. This type of degenerative change in the joint can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced motion in the shoulder and arm. In most cases, disorders of the SC joint can be treated without surgery.

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