Rebecca Tang
Orthopaedic Surgeon I MBBS, FRACS (Ortho)
Common shoulder problems
Here are some of the most common shoulder conditions we manage
Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears can be chronic (wear and tear) or as a result of an acute injury or a combination of both. They typically affect patients over the age of 40 and present with pain and/or weakness. Rotator cuff tears can also occur with other shoulder pathology and require careful assessment to determine the best management. Large tears which occur as the result of an injury should be seen urgently to assess suitability for early repair.
Shoulder Arthritis (Glenohumeral)
Shoulder arthritis is the loss of normal cartilage surface within the joint leading to bone on bone contact. This leads to disability due to progressive pain and stiffness.
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Initially non surgical treatment is recommended to help manage symptoms. With more severe disease and loss of function, joint replacement surgery may be required.
Instability
Shoulder dislocations are common injuries particularly in young patients playing contact sport. Initial treatment normally involves a reduction of the dislocation in the Emergency Department. Depending on your age and activity level, you may be at risk for developing recurrent dislocations. For these patients we can perform stabilisation surgery to prevent ongoing dislocations.
Frozen Shoulder (Or adhesive capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder is a cause of shoulder pain and stiffness due to inflammation and progressive tightening of the shoulder capsule. Although the exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, there are some risk factors such as diabetes and thyroid disease. Some patients have a history of a preceding injury however it can also occur with no injury. Time and physiotherapy will frequently be enough to manage this condition though for some patients surgery can be beneficial.
