Expert Shoulder Pain Treatment in Houston & Pearland | Dr. Burke Orthopedics

Symptoms:

• Pain or weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
• Discomfort that worsens with overhead activity or at night
• A dull ache deep in the shoulder or difficulty raising the arm

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Dr. Burke will perform a physical exam and imaging to assess tear severity. Conservative options like rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and structured physical therapy are usually tried first to improve mobility and strength.

Surgical Options:

If the tear is large or chronic, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair may be recommended to reattach the torn tendon and restore joint stability.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical cases often recover within 6–8 weeks. After surgery, full recovery can take 4–6 months with guided rehabilitation.

2. Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue around the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. It often follows an injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility and can progress through stages of pain and stiffness.

Symptoms:

• Gradual loss of motion and increasing pain
• Stiffness that worsens over weeks or months
• Difficulty performing tasks like reaching overhead or behind the back

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Early treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and maintaining mobility through physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and occasionally corticosteroid injections.

Surgical Options:

If motion remains severely limited, arthroscopic capsular release or gentle manipulation under anesthesia may be performed to restore flexibility.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical therapy may restore motion in 6–12 weeks. Surgical recovery can take 3–6 months, with physical therapy essential for lasting improvement.

3. Shoulder Impingement

Shoulder impingement happens when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed between shoulder bones, causing inflammation and pain during overhead activity.

Symptoms:

• Sharp or aching pain when lifting the arm
• Weakness or stiffness with overhead motions
• Discomfort when reaching behind the back

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Treatment focuses on restoring mechanics through posture correction, physical therapy, and targeted strengthening to create more space for tendons to move freely.

Surgical Options:

If conservative treatment fails, arthroscopic subacromial decompression can remove bone spurs and relieve tendon pressure.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical improvement may occur within 4–6 weeks. Post-surgery recovery usually takes 3–6 months with physical therapy.

4. Shoulder Dislocation

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) slips out of the shoulder socket. This is a common sports injury and can also occur after trauma or falls.

Symptoms:

• Intense shoulder pain and visible deformity
• Swelling, bruising, or inability to move the arm
• Numbness or weakness in the arm

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Dr. Burke performs a closed reduction, gently realigning the joint. Once repositioned, the shoulder is immobilized and followed by a structured therapy plan to restore stability.

Surgical Options:

If the joint becomes unstable or dislocates repeatedly, shoulder stabilization surgery may be necessary to repair torn ligaments and prevent recurrence.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical: 4–6 weeks. Surgical recovery: 3–6 months, with therapy essential to rebuild strength and prevent future dislocations.

5. Shoulder Arthritis (Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Arthritis in the shoulder results in cartilage breakdown or inflammation, leading to pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis develops over time, while rheumatoid arthritis involves immune system activity that damages joint tissues.

Symptoms:

• Chronic pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint
• Swelling and tenderness after periods of rest
• Reduced ability to lift or rotate the arm

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Conservative care includes anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections for temporary pain relief.

Surgical Options:

In advanced stages, shoulder replacement surgery or joint resurfacing may be recommended to restore smoother movement and reduce pain.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical management may bring improvement in a few weeks. After replacement surgery, full recovery typically takes 3–6 months.

6. Labral Tears

The shoulder’s labrum is a ring of cartilage that stabilizes the joint. Tears can occur from trauma (such as falling on an outstretched arm) or repetitive overhead use, leading to instability and pain.

Symptoms:

• Deep, aching pain in the shoulder joint
• Clicking, catching, or popping sensation during movement
• Weakness or instability in the shoulder

Dr. Burke’s Approach:

Mild tears are managed with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and stabilize the joint.

Surgical Options:

For persistent or severe cases, arthroscopic labral repair is performed to reattach or trim the damaged cartilage.

Recovery Timeline:

Non-surgical: 4–6 weeks. Surgical: 3–6 months, with therapy focusing on restoring shoulder strength and range of motion.

Comprehensive Shoulder Diagnostics and Prevention

Advanced Imaging and Testing

Dr. Burke uses X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasound to pinpoint the exact source of pain, ensuring accurate diagnosis and the most effective treatment path.

Injury Prevention and Mobility Tips

• Warm up and stretch before physical activity or repetitive motion
• Strengthen shoulder stabilizer muscles to support the joint
• Maintain good posture and ergonomics at work
• Avoid repetitive overhead motions without rest or conditioning

When to Seek Care Immediately

• Severe pain following a fall or sudden impact
• Visible deformity, swelling, or inability to move the arm
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand

Why Patients Across Houston & Pearland Trust Dr. Burke Orthopedics

• Board-certified orthopedic surgeon with decades of experience in shoulder care
• Comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation under one roof
• Evidence-based, patient-first approach with proven outcomes
• Trusted by patients throughout Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas