Shoulder

Overview

 

The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body. The three main bones include the humerus, clavicle (collar bone), and scapula (shoulder blade). The scapula has a “golf-tee” shaped cup called the glenoid which holds the ball-like head of the humerus in place. Adding stability to the flexible ball-and-socket joint is the labrum, a cup-shaped rim of cartilage.

 

Four Muscles

 

Four muscles on the scapula pass around the ball-and-socket joint and fuse together into a tendon forming the rotator cuff.

 

Mobility

 

The mobility of the shoulder makes it vulnerable to a range of injuries, inflammation, stiffness, and degenerative conditions.

 

Common Injuries

 

Common are overuse injuries by performing the same movement repeatedly, overtraining and not taking enough time to rest.

  • Arthritis

  • Bursitis

  • Tendinitis

  • Rotator cuff tears

  • Frozen shoulder

  • Shoulder impingement

  • Shoulder dislocation

  • Bicep tendon tear or rupture

  • SLAP tear (labrum tears)

 

Treatments

 

An examination by an orthopedic specialist is crucial when you have persistent pain or difficulty.

Typically, noninvasive treatments are tried first. This may include stretching, exercises, bracing, therapy, or injections. If a discussion of surgery is needed, minimally invasive surgical techniques are utilized such as arthroscopy or ultrasound guidance.

  • RICE

    • In some cases, the RICE method is all that’s needed to repair your shoulder. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Many minor shoulder problems end up worsening when patients don’t allow enough time to rest and recover.

  • Physical & Occupational Therapy

    • Physical or occupational therapy can be prescribed as part of the treatment program if needed.

    • Helpful to regain mobility and restore your strength and function.

Schedule an Appointment

Same-day Doctor Visits are Available

Get personalized medical care today. Every patient is seen by an orthopedic surgeon, not a nurse practitioner or physician's assistant. We recommend making an appointment. Please contact us at (808) 744-3360 or aloha@orthopedicshi.com to schedule.