Shoulder Impingement Surgery

One of the most common causes of shoulder pain is shoulder impingement syndrome. The cause of the pain generates from an inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons narrowing the space between acromion. With each shoulder movement, the narrowing space becomes irritated and inflamed which generates pain. Along with the pain, limited range of movement and weakness often occurs which effects normal daily routines.

In many cases, shoulder impingement surgery may be the only way to eliminate the pain and other symptoms. Starting with an accurate diagnosis, a highly qualified orthopedic surgeon will approach each person’s shoulder impingement in an individualized manner. Consider these five aspects of shoulder impingement surgery.

5 Things about Shoulder Impingement Surgery

1. Prior to shoulder impingement surgery, the doctor will often try non-surgical methods, including rest, physical therapy, cortisone injections and anti-inflammatory medications to help relieve the symptoms.

2. The shoulder impingement is assigned a grade based on symptoms, physical exam and multiple tests. The shoulder impingement surgery is generally not an option until a patient has experienced symptoms for at least six months.

• Grade I refers to the inflammation of the shoulder’s tendons and bursa sac. The inflammation limits the space under the acromion. As the bursa sac continues to swell, pain will be more noticeable.
• Grade II has the bursa sac beginning fill more with fluid and scarring will occur. The bursa sac will create a dull ache and limit movement.
• Grade III occurs when the rotator cuff tears or has degenerated.

3. Shoulder impingement surgery is done as an outpatient procedure. An overnight stay in the hospital is not required.

4. Shoulder impingement surgery is generally performed with one of two techniques to help create more space for the restore space for the rotator cuff to function properly.

• Arthroscopy technique is done by inserting surgical instruments through tiny incisions around the shoulder area. The orthopedic surgeon will use a scope to help perform the procedure to remove the bursa sac or repair the damaged area.
• Open surgery is performed by creating an incision along the front of the shoulder to allow the surgeon to view the damaged area. The open surgery option is usually performed on patients with severe damage or degeneration.

5. Shoulder impingement surgery requires a fair amount of recovery time to allow the newly attached tendons to heal properly to the bone.

• For approximately six weeks, the shoulder will be immobilized as much as possible to help protect the surgical area and promote the healing process.
• Physical therapy is used to help rebuild strength and regain full range of movement.
• Recovery time may take six months or in some cases over a year.

What To Know About Shoulder Impingement Surgery

In California, Dr. Howard Marans can answer all questions concerning any type of shoulder surgery. Dr. Marans strives to give each patient an individualized, complete explanation of all the treatment options including surgery prior to proceeding. He will go over the expectations and the desired outcome of each procedure.

Being in the same location for over 20 years, Dr. Marans understands the need to get back to a normal active lifestyle. He accepts PPO and will work with other insurance companies to give each patient the highest level of care without creating a financial burden. Please click below to schedule your consultation or call us at 714.979.8981.