The shoulder is your body’s most flexible joint, as well as one of the most complex. The board-certified orthopedic surgeons at Southern Oregon Orthopedics & Paragon Orthopedic Center in Medford and Grants Pass, Oregon, perform surgical and nonsurgical treatments for a wide range of shoulder problems. If you’re looking for a shoulder expert in southern Oregon, call one of the offices or book an appointment online today.

What are some common shoulder problems?

Shoulder pain is common, affecting about 7.5 million people each year. The experts at Southern Oregon Orthopedics & Paragon Orthopedic Center treat all types of shoulder problems, including:

• Rotator cuff tears

• Shoulder dislocations

• Shoulder labrum tears

• Shoulder instability

• Biceps tendon ruptures

• Shoulder impingements

• Sprains, strains, and fractures

Arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis, can also affect the shoulder.

What are the symptoms of a shoulder problem?

Shoulder pain is the most prevalent indicator of an underlying problem in the joint. Shoulder pain can come on suddenly and intensely, like after a fall or sports injury, or it may start off mild and worsen over time.

Other symptoms of a shoulder injury include:

• Stiffness

• Reduced range of motion

• Arm weakness

• Shoulder pain that worsens with certain movements

• Feeling like your shoulder might pop out of the socket

If you experience any of these symptoms, call Southern Oregon Orthopedics & Paragon Orthopedic Center for an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. Early detection is a critical part of preventing serious shoulder injuries.

How is shoulder pain diagnosed?

First, your Southern Oregon Orthopedics & Paragon Orthopedic Center provider asks about your symptoms and medical history. They perform a physical exam and may do diagnostic imaging tests, like an on-site X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

These tests help your doctor confirm a diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan.

How are shoulder problems treated?

The team at Southern Oregon Orthopedics & Paragon Orthopedic Center takes the most conservative approach to treatment possible. Often, they begin treating shoulder pain with physical therapy, including stretching and strengthening exercises you perform at home. They may also prescribe medication to reduce pain and inflammation.

If your condition is severe, or if pain and symptoms persist despite treatment, surgery may be necessary. Their surgeons perform a variety of shoulder procedures, including minimally invasive shoulder arthroscopy and shoulder joint replacement. They also offer on-site presurgical and postsurgical rehabilitation to ensure the best possible outcome.

For advanced expertise in shoulder injuries and disorders, call Southern Oregon Orthopedics & Paragon Orthopedic Center or request an appointment online today.