The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, allowing a wide range of motion that enables activities like throwing, lifting, and rotating the arm. However, the shoulder joint can become unstable, leading to discomfort, pain, and even repeated dislocations. When conservative treatments fail to resolve these issues, shoulder stabilization surgery may be the recommended solution.
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, with locations in Northeastern Ohio, our expert shoulder specialists are here to help diagnose and treat shoulder instability. If you’re experiencing recurring joint problems, schedule a visit today!
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint comprising the upper arm bone (humerus) and the shoulder socket (glenoid). These two components allow the shoulder to move freely and in many directions. Surrounding the joint is the joint capsule, a thick band of tissue that provides shoulder stability by keeping the upper arm bone securely in the shoulder socket. The stability of the shoulder is also supported by muscles and tendons that work together to maintain its function.
Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder joint is too loose, allowing the upper arm bone to move in and out of the socket too easily. This can be the result of an injury, overuse, or a natural condition where the ligaments are overly flexible.
In some cases, shoulder dislocation happens, where the ball comes entirely out of the socket. Repeated dislocations can lead to chronic instability, and over time, this condition can cause damage to the joint capsule, cartilage, and surrounding tissues, resulting in pain and limited function.
Shoulder instability is especially common in athletes who participate in high-impact or overhead sports like baseball, basketball, or swimming.
Surgery is typically recommended when non-surgical treatments—such as rest, activity modification, and physical therapy fail to restore proper function and stability to the shoulder. If you experience repeated shoulder dislocations, persistent pain, or instability that interferes with your ability to perform everyday tasks or participate in sports, shoulder stabilization surgery may be necessary.
Individuals who have tried conservative treatments without success, as well as those with significant tears or damage to the ligaments and joint capsule, are good candidates for this surgical procedure. An orthopaedic surgeon will evaluate the extent of your shoulder instability and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on your specific needs.
The most common approach to shoulder stabilization surgery is through arthroscopic shoulder surgery. This minimally invasive technique involves small incisions through which the surgeon inserts a tiny camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments to repair the damaged structures inside the shoulder joint. During the procedure, the surgeon may tighten the ligaments and reinforce the joint capsule to restore shoulder stability and prevent future dislocations.
In cases where arthroscopic surgery is not suitable, open surgery may be necessary. This approach provides the surgeon with a larger view of the joint, allowing for more extensive repairs. Both techniques aim to stabilize the shoulder and prevent further damage, ultimately improving the shoulder’s range of motion and functionality.
Recovery after shoulder surgery is a gradual process that requires a combination of rest, physical therapy, and strengthening exercises to rebuild the shoulder’s strength and flexibility. The initial recovery phase may include wearing a sling to keep the arm immobilized, allowing the repaired tissues to heal properly. After a few weeks, physical therapy will begin, focusing on restoring the range of motion and strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint.
Full recovery from arthroscopic surgery typically takes 4–6 months, though it can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the repair. During this time, it is crucial to follow your surgeon’s rehabilitation plan to ensure optimal healing and reduce the risk of shoulder dislocation in the future. Adhering to your rehabilitation program will help restore your shoulder’s function and stability, allowing you to return to your regular activities, including sports, with confidence.
If you’re dealing with shoulder instability or recurring dislocations, it’s essential to seek treatment to prevent further damage to your shoulder. Our experienced team at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties specializes in diagnosing and treating shoulder problems, offering both non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our shoulder specialists in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, or Middlefield, OH. Let us help you regain control of your shoulder’s function and get back to living an active, pain-free life!
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Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is a leading provider of orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, podiatry, physical therapy, athletic training, and state-of-the-art medical imaging including MRI.