Rotator Cuff Tears

A rotator cuff tear occurs when the tendons that attach the muscles of the rotator cuff to the upper arm bone tear partially or completely. This condition is often caused by repetitive motions or sudden injuries. Treatment options for rotator cuff tears depend on the severity of the tear. Non-surgical treatments may include rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the torn tendons.

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, limiting its range of motion. The condition typically develops over time and goes through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing. Treatment for frozen shoulder usually involves physical therapy, stretching exercises, and sometimes corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become pinched between the bones of the shoulder. This often happens during overhead activities and can cause pain and weakness in the affected arm. Treatment for shoulder impingement may include rest, activity modification, physical therapy to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be administered to reduce inflammation.

Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between bones and soft tissues in the shoulder. Overuse or direct trauma can lead to bursitis. Treatment for shoulder bursitis includes rest, ice application, and anti-inflammatory medications. Physical therapy may also be recommended to strengthen the surrounding muscles and prevent further irritation.

Shoulder Osteoarthritis

Shoulder osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that covers the bones in the shoulder joint wears down over time. As a result, movement becomes painful and limited. Treatment for shoulder osteoarthritis often involves a combination of pain management with medications, physical therapy to improve joint function and strength, and lifestyle modifications. In severe cases, surgery such as shoulder joint replacement may be considered.

Conclusion

Taking care of your shoulders is crucial to maintaining an active and pain-free lifestyle. If you experience persistent shoulder pain or limited mobility, it’s essential to consult an orthopedist, like Dr. Matthew Dwyer, Dr. Alexandra Matthews and Dr. Christopher Phelps, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention and proper management can significantly improve the outcome for various shoulder conditions. Remember, it’s always better to address shoulder issues promptly to prevent further complications and to get back to enjoying life to the fullest!

The post Understanding Common Shoulder Conditions and Their Treatments appeared first on Orthopedic Performance.

Knee or hip joint replacement, also called arthroplasty, can be a valuable tool when traditional, non-surgical treatment options have failed to manage the pain from an arthritic hip or knee.

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a progressive, degenerative disease in which the cartilage of the knee or hip slowly wears away. Cartilage serves as a cushion between the bones of the joint, and when the cartilage of the joint wears away due to osteoarthritis, the resulting pain and inflammation can be debilitating.

Your chances of osteoarthritis of the weight-bearing joints of the knee and hip increase with age; the condition most often affects middle-aged and older people. Osteoarthritis may first appear between the ages of 30 and 40, though symptoms may not be present in the early stages. Later in life, many Americans will experience joint pain due to arthritis that can make enjoying life very challenging.

Orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Matthew Dwyer and Dr. Christopher Phelps, with the Orthopedic Performance Institute, are dedicated to combating the effects of osteoarthritis and are determined to guide patients back to an active, enjoyable lifestyle.

Historically, knee and hip replacement have been Performed as in-patient procedures, involving one or even two-night stays in the hospital. Since 2018, both Dr. Dwyer and Dr. Phelps have been performing joint replacements on an out-patient basis. This is accomplished through extensive patient education and preparation combined with minimally invasive surgical techniques, advanced pain management therapies and enhanced rehabilitative support.

Our outpatient total joint replacement program eliminates the need for overnight hospital stays and allows patients to return to an active, enjoyable life with minimal downtime. The surgery itself takes about one and a half hours, and patients spend about five to six hours total at the surgical center before being discharged to recover fully at home.

The success of outpatient joint replacement journey is dependent on several factors. One of the most imperative factors is appropriate patient selection which can be based on good general health, age, and at-home support, followed by preparation and education of the patient about:

• At-home rehabilitation and post-operative exercise.
• Wound care and pain management.
• Recognition and avoidance of possible complications. Complications such as infections or blood clots are associated with any surgery, and precautions are taken to minimize these concerns.

Dr. Dwyer and Dr. Phelps have a genuine commitment to patient health and have performed hundreds of successful joint replacement surgeries each year. For more information about knee and hip replacement surgery or any orthopedic condition, call (210) 545-7171 or visit our website. The Orthopedic Performance Institute has offices in Stone Oak and Boerne.

Get back your active life with the Orthopedic Performance Institute.

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