The shoulder is one of the most intricate parts of the human body, composed of a network of bones, joints, tendons, nerves, and muscles. Because of its complexity, pain in the shoulder is common. While many may attribute such pain to age, it’s important to have shoulder pain or mobility problems examined by a professional. As we get older, bones and tendons in the shoulder may start to wear down and separate from one another. When that happens, shoulder replacement surgery becomes necessary.
Types of Shoulder Conditions
There are several conditions that can affect the shoulder, including:
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Arthritis
- Torn tendon attachments
These conditions can limit patients’ range of motion and cause severe pain that persists even while resting.
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when friction builds up between the shoulder blade and the bursa, the shoulder blade’s protective covering. Bursitis is subtle condition that can slowly develop over years, eventually causing intense pain that may require hospitalization to treat.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis occurs when muscle tendons are damaged or inflamed. When tendons, including those present in the shoulder, lose their ability to smoothly facilitate movement between joints, they can produce pain and discomfort.
Arthritis
Arthritis occurs when the cartilage that surrounds joints begins to wear and break down. Over time, the joint begins to swell, causing extreme pain. Arthritis in the shoulder can lead to a limited range of motion if left untreated.
Torn Tendon Attachments
The shoulder is attached to the bicep muscles in the arm via a tendon that connects bones in the shoulder to muscle mass. When this tendon tears, the arm can experience significant loss of strength, as well as pain, bruising, and cramping.
Diagnosis and Treatments
The safest and most reliable way to identify shoulder problems is to undertake Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). MRIs produce the most accurate images of the shoulder and have no known side effects associated with them.
The type of treatment required for a given shoulder condition depends on its severity. Conditions that are caught early can be treated with rest and over-the-counter medications, while long-term, chronic conditions may require more drastic measures, such as shoulder replacement surgery.
Surgery and Recovery
If necessary, shoulder replacement surgery can replace damaged or worn-down parts of the shoulder with plastic or metal implants. These implants compensate for the portion of the shoulder that has been lost due to age or injury, help restore the shoulder to its full range of motion, and alleviate pain.
After surgery, patients may be out of commission for up to six months while they recover. It may take a year or more for the shoulder to regain its full range of motion.
The experts at Yuma Bone and Joint can help you navigate the complex decision to undertake shoulder replacement surgery. Schedule a consultation today!