Sports Medicine Oregon

Shoulder Arthroscopy in Portland, OR

No matter what sport you play, whether it is golf, football, baseball, or tennis, a shoulder injury can make participation almost impossible. At the first signs of shoulder pain, it is especially important to cease certain physical activities and rest. Continued use of the injured joint can increase the amount of time you will need to stay off the field, and may even result in permanent damage. The team at Sports Medicine Oregon specializes in diagnosing and treating shoulder pain, so that you can return to the game as soon as possible.

Anatomy of the Shoulder

The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint responsible for most upper arm movement. The shoulder joint structure is very complex; it is composed of the shoulder blade (scapula), upper arm bone (humerus), and collarbone (clavicle). The large head of the humerus rests within a shallow socket on the shoulder blade, known as the glenoid fossa. The structure of the joint allows the arm to move in a circular motion. Although the shoulder has a complex structure, it is very unstable and can be easily injured. To help stabilize and support the joint, tissue and tendons attach the bones together. To support the movement of the joint in a circular motion, a set of four muscles (rotator cuff) attached to the shoulder blade provide the necessary flexibility and strength.

Treatment Options: Arthroscopic Surgery

If any of the joint components are damaged or inflamed, increasing pain and immobility will often occur. If left untreated complete immobility of the joint may develop. Based on injury type and severity, the team at Sports Medicine Oregon will determine the best solution to alleviate pain and restore joint function. For the most part, conservative methods will be recommended; however, surgery may be necessary, if pain symptoms continue.

Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive surgical treatment used to treat a variety of shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tears, laberal tears, and severe arthritis. During the procedure, the orthopaedic surgeon will insert a camera, known as an arthroscope, into a small incision. The camera sends real-time images of the interior of the joint to a computer monitor in the operating room. The orthopaedic surgeon will then insert specialized instruments into a second incision to repair the affected areas. The combination of the arthroscope and specialized instruments allows the surgical team to complete the procedure with increased precision and accuracy. Shoulder arthroscopy has several advantages, including less scarring due to smaller incisions, shorter hospital stay, faster return to daily activities, and a more natural feeling when moving the joint.

Recovery Process

After surgery, limiting joint movement is necessary for proper healing. You will need to wear a sling or a brace to stabilize the joint. Post surgery you will often experience pain and inflammation. A cold compress and rest, in addition to your prescribed pain medications, will help decrease post-op symptoms. The incisions will take several days to heal, so the Sports Medicine Oregon team will recommend that you wait to begin your physical therapy for approximately four days. During physical therapy, a gradual approach will be used to help you return to your everyday and athletic activities sooner and safely.