Submitted by Orthopaedic Specialists
You’re all ready for your busy weekend — numerous errands, a round of golf, a birthday party, and dinner with friends. Now if only you could get rid of that nagging shoulder pain, the days would go so much better…
Treatment options
If this is happening to you, you’re not alone. Millions of adults in the United States suffer from shoulder pain. While many people fail to consult a surgeon in fear that it will require surgical intervention, Dr. Tuvi Mendel of Orthopaedic Specialists says that there are plenty of non-surgical options. “One of the things I always discuss with my patients is treatments that do not require surgery. In many cases, this may include modifying their activity, participating in physical therapy, injections in the affected joint, or stem cell injections.”
For those cases that are either severe enough or that don’t respond positively to the options above, surgical intervention may be warranted. Dr. Mendel has found that performing a reverse shoulder replacement is often a better solution.
“A reverse total shoulder replacement improves function for patients who no longer have a functional rotator cuff. The majority of the work in arm movement is shifted away from the damaged rotator cuff muscles to the deltoid muscles.” Dr. Mendel has performed hundreds of reverse total shoulder replacement surgeries and found that patients do much better than those who have undergone a traditional rotator cuff repair. “My patients who have underwent this procedure have a much better range of motion, less pain, and a faster recovery.”
Outpatient shoulder surgery: when it needs replaced
Over time, your shoulder may become painful with everyday, normal use. When it begins to deteriorate or become arthritic, the joint may feel stiff or unstable and very painful, making it difficult to perform your everyday activities. This is the time to see Dr. Mendel and discuss options.
Dr. Mendel states, “Once we have exhausted conservative management, our discussions turn to possibilities offered with surgical management. This includes looking at whether an arthroscopic procedure is indicated, or if shoulder replacement surgery is the appropriate path to take.”
“Because the surgical team at Mississippi Valley Surgical Center specializes in outpatient surgeries and procedures, they are experts in the latest, proven techniques that lead to better outcomes and faster recovery for our patients,” said Dr. Mendel. “That makes the entire surgical experience convenient and personal for my patients.”
The Mississippi Valley Surgery Center is accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC). The accreditation certificate is a symbol that an organization is committed to providing high-quality health care and has demonstrated that commitment by measuring up to the Accreditation Association’s high standards. The Mississippi Valley Surgery Center is also Medicare certified.
To learn more about Orthopaedic Specialists, call 563-344-9292 or visit OSQuadCities.com.