Surgery

 Surgery solutions for your shoulder problem 

Each year, there are about 1.5 million visits to orthopaedic surgeons (def.) to treat shoulder problems. For certain conditions, surgery may be the answer to reducing pain and restoring mobility and strength. Surgery can get you off the sidelines and back playing ball, swimming or hitting tennis serves. It can help make the normal activities of your daily life — putting on a jacket, combing your hair — easier to do. If a shoulder problem has kept you from your job, it can get you back to work.

Once you have decided to take the first important step toward returning to your active life, you will need to choose an orthopaedic surgeon. You and your surgeon will discuss the surgery that best will treat your shoulder problem.

 What kind of surgery should I expect?  

Your surgeon will discuss the appropriate type of surgical procedure for your shoulder problem. Don't hesitate to ask questions — it's your shoulder!

Learning that surgery can help you get your life back is good news. More good news is that the treatment of shoulder problems has improved greatly since a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopy was developed several decades ago. Arthroscopy allows your surgeon to see inside your shoulder and to carry out procedures through tiny incisions.

Keep in mind that orthopaedic experts say many shoulder patients are seen later than recommended. Individuals who have pain that's more than just a little bruise, ache or a muscle strain should seek early evaluation, the experts counsel.

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 Surgical options for your shoulder  

When you and your surgeon agree that surgery is the best option, the surgeon will answer your questions, including:

The surgeon also will discuss the risks of your surgery.

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 Rehabilitation for recovery  

After surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon and physical therapist will work together to create a plan for your rehabilitation. This will include exercises to reduce pain, restore shoulder motion and flexibility, and improve strength — allowing you to return you to return to your normal activities.

There are advantages to arthroscopic surgery compared with traditional open surgery, orthopaedic surgeons point out. There's less blood loss since, in most cases, surgeons don't have to open the shoulder. There's also significantly less pain post-operatively. Finally, patients generally make a faster recovery.

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