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Common Problems of the Shoulder
The shoulder is the most movable joint in your body. Everyday stress and injury leads thousands of people to physician care each year. Likewise, the elbow undergoes amazing stress every day.
Common problems of the shoulder and elbow include:
- Ligament and tendon sprains
- Dislocations
- Separations
- Fractures
- Rotator cuff tears
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
- Arthritis
Each of these ailments, injuries, or disorders brings with it complications and pain. Because the shoulder is used for every movement of the arm and elbow, the joint undergoes stress each time the arm moves and pain in these joints can be debilitating.
Diagnosing shoulder and elbow problems traditionally involves a review of your medical history, an examination by a physician or specialist, diagnostic imaging utilizing X-ray, CT scan, or MRI and possibly arthroscopic exams and needle aspirations to examine fluid in the joints.
Treatment options for shoulder and elbows usually begin with rest and restriction using slings or braces, ice, physical therapy, and exercise, medication, injections, and surgery. Surgical options for repairing injuries or relieving pain have increased in recent years to include ligament and tendon repairs, stabilization using screws and pins, and total joint replacement. While the number of joint replacements of the shoulder and elbow are significantly less than knees and hips, more of these procedures are taking place every year.
Click here to learn more about common problems of the shoulder and elbow from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
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