Shoulder injuries are more common than you might think. Studies show that over 4.5 million people visit a doctor annually for shoulder pain in the United States alone. Whether caused by repetitive strain, sports injuries, or age-related wear and tear, shoulder issues can significantly impact your daily life, making routine tasks difficult and painful.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we specialize in comprehensive orthopedic shoulder care right here in Barrington. Featuring Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Sean Jereb, Dr. Thomas Obermeyer, Dr. Jason Rotstein, and Dr. Mark Yaffe, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you restore strength, mobility, and comfort. From personalized treatment plans to advanced surgical options, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you restore strength, mobility, and comfort. If shoulder pain has been holding you back, don't wait—schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward relief.
Understanding your options is key to making the right decisions about shoulder surgery. Let's explore what you need to know.
When Should You Consider Shoulder Surgery?
Deciding when to pursue shoulder surgery can feel overwhelming, but certain signs indicate it might be time to consult a specialist. If you experience one or more of the following, surgery could be worth discussing:
- Chronic pain that doesn’t improve with conservative treatments like rest, medication, or physical therapy.
- Limited range of motion, such as difficulty lifting your arm or reaching overhead.
- Recurring injuries or conditions like shoulder instability, where the upper arm bone slips out of the shoulder joint.
- Advanced conditions like rotator cuff tears, arthritis, or frozen shoulder that impact your daily living.
- A lack of response to non-surgical interventions, leaving you unable to treat shoulder pain effectively.
It’s important to remember that surgery is rarely the first option. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we explore all non-invasive methods before recommending surgical intervention. However, when quality of life is severely impacted, surgery can provide lasting relief.
Types of Shoulder Surgery and Their Benefits
When surgery is needed, understanding your options can ease concerns and pave the way to recovery. At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, we offer advanced solutions tailored to your unique needs. Here are some of the most common and effective shoulder procedures:
1. Rotator Cuff Surgery
Rotator cuff surgery repairs tears in the tendons and muscles that stabilize your shoulder. Often performed arthroscopically using small incisions, this minimally invasive approach reduces scarring and speeds up healing. Many patients regain significant strength and mobility after this surgery.
2. Reverse Total Shoulder Surgery
For severe arthritis or large rotator cuff tears, reverse total shoulder surgery can restore movement and reduce pain. By reversing the natural ball-and-socket structure of the shoulder joint, this advanced procedure allows other muscles to compensate for damaged rotator cuff tendons, and improves functionality.
3. Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery
This minimally invasive technique addresses issues like shoulder instability, impingement syndrome, or cartilage damage. Surgeons use a camera and specialized tools to treat the problem with precision, resulting in less discomfort and faster recovery compared to open surgeries.
4. Total Shoulder Surgery
Patients with severe damage to the ball-and-socket joint due to arthritis or injury may benefit from total shoulder surgery. This procedure replaces the damaged joint with durable artificial components, letting patients enjoy improved range of motion and reduced pain.
Additional Specialized Procedures
For more specific shoulder conditions, we offer specialized treatments including:
- Acromioplasty: Relieves shoulder impingement by reshaping the acromion bone to reduce tendon pinching.
- Biceps Tendon Surgeries: Repairs or repositions the biceps tendon, restoring strength and stability.
- Broken Collarbone Surgery: Realigns and stabilizes the clavicle for proper healing and improved function.
- Revision Shoulder Surgery: Corrects complications or unsatisfactory results from prior shoulder procedures.
- Shoulder Resurfacing Surgery: Preserves bone while capping damaged areas with metal surfaces for less invasive joint repair.
Each procedure serves a distinct purpose. Our experienced orthopedic specialists will guide you in choosing the treatment that best fits your condition and recovery goals. With our focus on minimally invasive techniques and personalized care, we aim to get you back to pain-free movement as quickly as possible.
What to Expect After Surgery (Post-Surgery Recovery and Rehabilitation)
While shoulder surgery can bring relief, the path to full recovery takes time and commitment. Here’s what you can expect in the weeks and months following your procedure:
- Initial Recovery Phase - After surgery, you may wear a sling to immobilize the arm and protect the repaired shoulder joint. Swelling and discomfort are normal but can be managed with prescribed pain medications, ice and proper rest. Follow your doctor's post-op instructions carefully.
- Resuming Daily Activities - Gradually, you’ll begin to regain mobility. Depending on the type of procedure—whether rotator cuff surgery or shoulder replacement surgery—your approach to activity will vary. Patience and consistency are key during this stage.
- Physical Therapy Integration - A structured rehabilitation program will play a crucial role in rebuilding strength and improving function. Working with experienced therapists ensures that your recovery is both safe and efficient.
Every individual heals at their own pace. Regular follow-ups with your orthopedic surgeon ensure that your recovery stays on track.
The Role of Physical Therapy in Shoulder Recovery
Physical therapy isn’t just important—it’s essential in regaining movement after orthopedic shoulder surgery. A customized therapy plan will help you:
- Restore range of motion in the shoulder socket and upper arm bone.
- Strengthen muscles around the shoulder joint to support your daily activities.
- Prevent stiffness and complications during recovery.
Therapists often use stretching exercises, guided movements, and techniques to reduce scar tissue formation. Whether you're recovering from a rotator cuff repair, reverse shoulder replacement or arthroscopic procedure, physical therapy gives you the best chance to return to the activities you enjoy.
Your Shoulder Health Matters at Barrington Orthopedics
Shoulder surgery can feel like a daunting prospect, but with the right guidance and care, it can also be life-changing. AtBarrington Orthopedic Specialists, we understand the challenges shoulder problems bring to your day-to-day life. Our team – which includes Dr. Matthew Bernstein, Dr. Sean Jereb, Dr. Thomas Obermeyer, Dr. Jason Rotstein, and Dr. Mark Yaffe – prioritizes personalized care, whether you’re exploring non-surgical treatments or planning for surgery.
If shoulder pain has been holding you back, don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule an appointment with our team to discuss your options. Together, we’ll create a plan to restore your comfort, strength, and independence.
