When Is Shoulder Arthroscopy in Bergen County Necessary?

See a Shoulder Specialist for the Most Effective Treatment

Before the use of arthroscopy, a major shoulder injury could ruin an athlete’s career. Now, arthroscopy allows doctors to make highly precise diagnoses and surgically treat shoulder conditions. The effectiveness of this procedure continues to improve as new instruments and techniques are developed.

For patients considering shoulder arthroscopy in Bergen County, there has never been a better time to consider this treatment. Rothman Orthopaedic Institute performs thousands of arthroscopy procedures annually, making us one of the top providers in the nation. Our doctors’ deep clinical expertise and sub-specialized knowledge are why we continue to lead the industry in positive patient outcomes.

What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

The word “arthroscopy” comes from the Greek for “arthro” (joint) and “skopein” (to look), which describes what this procedure involves: looking inside the joint. The shoulder specialist inserts a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, into the joint. The camera shows the inside of the shoulder joint on a television screen, which is used to guide the surgeon’s movements. This allows the doctor to diagnose conditions that may not show up on an x-ray and then make repairs as necessary. The surgery often involves small incisions to trim away or remove damaged tissues. Because it is less invasive than open surgery, arthroscopy allows patients to return to normal life more quickly!

Three Reasons Why You Might Need Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery in Bergen County

Arthroscopy may be recommended when you have a painful shoulder condition that has not responded to non-operative treatment. A diseased shoulder joint that does not improve with rest, medications, or injections may become chronically inflamed and lead to future problems, such as arthritis. Arthroscopy addresses issues that do not get better without intervention, such as torn rotator cuffs and ligaments. Depending on the location of your injury, it may be difficult for blood to reach it. The lack of nutrients from the blood can create serious barriers to healing, necessitating a procedure to repair these tissue manually.

If you are still experiencing these symptoms after going through conservative treatment, you may be a candidate for shoulder arthroscopy in Bergen County:

1. Bursitis symptoms. Shoulder bursitis, or impingement syndrome, can be treated with arthroscopic subacromial decompression. The procedure removes the inflamed bursa and sometimes, bone, from the irritated area. Typical symptoms of bursitis include pain around the outside/tip of the shoulder, reduced range of motion, swelling and redness around the shoulder, and pain when raising the arm.

2. Rotator cuff tear symptoms. The rotator cuff refers to the group of muscles and tendons around the shoulder blade. When any part of the rotator cuff becomes injured, whether from trauma or overuse, it can seriously affect shoulder functioning. A rotator cuff tear may result in pain with certain arm movements (lifting or lowering the arm), a dull ache in the shoulder, weakness, and/or a crackling sensation when moving the shoulder. Rotator cuff surgery may be recommended if your symptoms last for six to 12 months and if you have significant weakness and loss of function.

3. Labral tear symptoms.The labrum is a cuff of cartilage that wraps around the shoulder socket, stabilizing the joint. A labral tear, or SLAP injury, can occur from trauma or repetitive shoulder motions (such as throwing). Left untreated, it may increase your likelihood of shoulder displacement. This injury is often accompanied by muscle weakness and a loss of range of motion, as well as sensations of catching, popping, grinding, or locking of the shoulder.

See a Top Shoulder Surgeon at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute

When you’re considering a decision as serious as surgery, it’s advantageous to consult with the best orthopaedic surgeons you can find. The Shoulder & Elbow team at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute is ranked among the nation’s top programs. Our compassionate physicians provide specialized care to those experiencing shoulder and elbow pain in Bergen County.

At Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, you’ll benefit from:

• Convenience. You can access treatment, including shoulder arthroscopy in Bergen County, close to you, at our New Jersey offices.

• Excellence. As leaders in the field, we maintain a high standard of care for all our patients.

• Trust. The doctor-patient relationship is fundamental to all our work. We take the time to understand each patient’s unique concerns and answer any questions you may have.

If you are suffering from shoulder pain, it’s time to receive the help that will make a real difference. To make an appointment, please visit us here or contact us at 1-800-321-9999.