At UTMB Health, our orthopedic shoulder specialists provide comprehensive care for a wide range of shoulder conditions, including sports injuries, rotator cuff tears, and dislocations. We use the latest diagnostic tools and advanced treatment options to help you recover strength and restore function. We’re committed to helping you get back to the activities you love, free of shoulder pain or discomfort, with compassionate care you can trust.
Conditions We Treat
Rotator Cuff Disorders
Impingement Syndrome
Overview:
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become pinched between the bones of the shoulder during arm movement. This condition is often linked to overuse, especially with overhead activities, and may lead to tendinitis or bursitis if untreated.
Symptoms:
- Pain when lifting the arm overhead
- Shoulder weakness or fatigue
- Pain that worsens at night
- Stiffness or decreased range of motion
- Tenderness at the front or side of shoulder
Treatments & Procedures:
- Activity modification to reduce irritation
- Physical therapy focused on shoulder mechanics
- Ice packs and anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling
- Surgery to remove impinging tissue (if conservative measures fail)
- Posture training to reduce compression of shoulder structures
Rotator Cuff Tears
Overview:
A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the tendons that stabilize and move the shoulder become torn, either partially or completely. It can result from sudden injury or repetitive overhead motion over time. Rotator cuff tears are common in athletes and older adults, and can lead to pain, weakness, and reduced arm mobility.
Symptoms:
- Pain at rest or when lifting the arm
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- Crackling or popping sensation with shoulder movement
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
- Limited range of motion
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest and activity modification to avoid further strain
- Physical therapy to strengthen shoulder muscles and improve mobility
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation in joint
- Surgical repair for full or large tears
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in select cases
- Arthroscopic/minimally invasive rotator cuff repair
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
Overview:
Rotator cuff tendinitis is inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff, usually caused by overuse or repetitive overhead activity. It’s common in athletes and manual laborers. The condition may start with mild discomfort but can progress to persistent pain and restricted shoulder movement if left untreated.
Symptoms:
- Dull ache or sharp pain in the shoulder
- Pain when raising or lowering the arm
- Tenderness in the front of the shoulder
- Difficulty with overhead activities
- Mild swelling in the shoulder
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest and avoiding aggravating movements
- Ice therapy to reduce swelling and pain
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to control symptoms
- Physical therapy to improve posture, strength, and flexibility
- Steroid injections for persistent inflammation
- Ultrasound or shockwave therapy in chronic cases
Subacromial Bursitis
Overview:
Subacromial bursitis is inflammation of the bursa located beneath the acromion, a part of the shoulder blade. It often develops alongside rotator cuff tendinitis or impingement syndrome, and can be triggered by repetitive overhead activity, trauma, or arthritis.
Symptoms:
- Pain at the outer shoulder, especially during lifting
- Swelling or tenderness over the top of shoulder
- Reduced shoulder mobility
- Pain when lying on affected side
- Weakness during overhead movements
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest and avoiding overhead activity
- Cold compresses to ease swelling
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy to improve posture and joint mechanics
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce bursal inflammation
- Bursal decompression surgery in chronic cases
Arthritis
AC Joint Arthritis
Overview:
AC (acromioclavicular) joint arthritis is the degeneration of the joint at the top of the shoulder where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. It often results from wear and tear or previous injury and causes localized pain and stiffness.
Symptoms:
- Pain at the top of shoulder
- Tenderness over AC joint
- Pain worsened by overhead or cross-body arm movements
- Swelling or bony enlargement near joint
- Reduced shoulder mobility
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice therapy to reduce pain and swelling
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
- Corticosteroid injections for persistent pain
- Surgery to remove damaged joint tissue in refractory cases
Post-traumatic Shoulder Arthritis
Overview:
Post-traumatic arthritis develops after an injury damages the cartilage or bones in the shoulder joint, leading to arthritis symptoms. It can follow fractures, dislocations, or severe soft tissue injuries.
Symptoms:
- Chronic shoulder pain following injury
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- Swelling and tenderness
- Grinding or clicking with movement
- Weakness in the shoulder
Treatments & Procedures:
- Physical therapy for mobility and strength
- Pain management with medications and injections
- Activity modification to avoid aggravating joint
- Surgical options including joint repair or replacement for severe cases
Shoulder Osteoarthritis
Overview:
Shoulder osteoarthritis is the gradual breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the shoulder joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It typically develops over time with age or following injury and is more common in older adults.
Symptoms:
- Persistent shoulder pain worsened by activity
- Stiffness and decreased range of motion
- Grinding or clicking sensations during movement
- Weakness around shoulder
- Swelling or tenderness
Treatments & Procedures:
- Activity modification to reduce stress on joint
- Physical therapy to maintain flexibility and strength
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Joint replacement surgery in severe cases
Other Conditions
Frozen shoulder
Overview:
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful due to thickening and tightening of the joint capsule. It typically progresses in stages and can take months or even years to fully resolve.
Symptoms:
Three stages of frozen shoulder are the freezing stage, the frozen stage, and the thawing stage.
- Gradual onset of shoulder pain
- Increasing stiffness and loss of motion
- Difficulty with daily activities like dressing or reaching
- Pain that may worsen at night
- Limited active and passive range of motion
Treatment/procedure:
- Physical therapy to gradually restore mobility
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce joint inflammation
- Heat therapy and gentle stretching
- Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) in severe cases
- Arthroscopic capsular release surgery if conservative care fails
Dislocations & Instability Conditions
Separated Shoulder
Overview:
A separated shoulder is an injury to the acromioclavicular (AC) joint, where the collarbone meets the highest point of the shoulder blade. It occurs when the ligaments connecting these bones are stretched or torn, usually due to a fall directly onto the shoulder. This is different from a dislocated shoulder, which involves the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder coming apart. Common causes include falls, onto the shoulder, direct blows to the shoulder, and contact sports injuries.
Symptoms :
- Pain at top of shoulder
- Swelling or bruising
- A visible bump or deformity at AC joint
- Limited range of motion in shoulder
- Weakness or difficulty lifting arm
- Tenderness over collarbone or AC joint
- Pain worsens with shoulder movement or pressure
Treatment/procedure :
- Rest and activity modification to avoid aggravating movements
- Ice therapy to reduce swelling and pain
- Arm sling to immobilize shoulder during initial healing
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) for pain relief
- Physical therapy to restore strength, motion, and function
- Corticosteroid injections (occasionally, for persistent pain)
- Surgical repair or reconstruction for severe separations (high-grade injuries) or ongoing instability
Shoulder Dislocations
Overview:
A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket. This injury is often caused by trauma or a sudden impact during sports or falls. Dislocations can damage surrounding muscles, ligaments, and nerves, and may lead to recurrent instability if not properly treated.
Symptoms:
- Severe shoulder pain
- Visible deformity or “out of place” appearance
- Swelling and bruising
- Inability to move the arm
- Numbness or weakness in arm or hand
Treatment/procedures :
- Putting shoulder back in place
- Immobilization with a sling for several weeks
- Physical therapy to restore strength and motion
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling
- Surgery in cases of recurrent dislocations or severe tissue damage
Shoulder Instability
Overview:
Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder joint is loose and slides partially or fully out of place repeatedly. It often follows dislocations or injuries that stretch or tear the ligaments supporting the joint. Instability can cause pain, weakness, and limited function.
Symptoms:
- Sensation of the shoulder “slipping” or “popping out”
- Recurrent dislocations or partial dislocations
- Shoulder pain and weakness
- Feeling of looseness or instability in shoulder
- Difficulty performing overhead activities
Treatments & Procedures:
- Physical therapy focusing on strengthening shoulder stabilizers
- Activity modification to avoid high-risk movements
- Use of shoulder braces or supports during activities
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
- Labrum repair and reconstruction
Shoulder Labral Tears
Overview:
A shoulder labral tear involves damage to the cartilage rim that helps stabilize the shoulder socket. Tears can result from trauma, repetitive overhead motions, or gradual wear and tear, leading to pain, catching, or instability.
Symptoms:
- Deep shoulder pain, especially with overhead activities
- Catching, locking, or popping sensations
- Weakness or instability in shoulder
- Reduced range of motion
- Discomfort when lying on affected shoulder
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain management
- Corticosteroid injections for inflammation
- Surgery to repair or remove damaged tissue
Fractures & Soft Tissue Injuries
Collarbone Fracture
Overview:
A collarbone (clavicle) fracture is a break in the bone that connects the shoulder blade to the sternum. It usually results from a fall onto the shoulder or outstretched arm and can cause pain, swelling, and limited shoulder movement.
Symptoms:
- Pain directly over collarbone
- Swelling and bruising around fracture site
- Visible deformity or bump on collarbone
- Difficulty lifting arm
- Grinding or cracking sensation when moving shoulder
Treatments & Procedures:
- Immobilization with a sling or figure-eight brace
- Pain relief with medications
- Physical therapy to restore motion and strength after healing
- Surgery with plates or screws if fracture is displaced or unstable
- Follow-up imaging to monitor healing
Proximal Humerus Fracture
Overview:
A proximal humerus fracture is a break near the top of the upper arm bone close to the shoulder joint. It often results from falls or trauma, especially in older adults with weaker bones.
Symptoms:
- Severe pain in the upper arm or shoulder
- Swelling and bruising around fracture
- Inability to move shoulder or arm
- Deformity or abnormal positioning of arm
- Numbness or weakness if nerves are involved
Treatments & Procedures:
- Sling or shoulder immobilizer to support arm
- Pain control with medications
- Physical therapy to regain mobility and strength
- Surgery for displaced or complex fractures, using plates, screws, or pins
- Regular follow-up for bone healing assessment
Shoulder Blade Fracture
Overview:
A shoulder blade fracture is a break in the flat bone at the back of the shoulder. It usually results from high-impact trauma like car accidents or falls and may be accompanied by other injuries.
Symptoms:
- Pain at the back of shoulder
- Swelling and tenderness over scapula
- Difficulty moving shoulder
- Bruising on the upper back or shoulder
- Possible numbness if nerves are affected
Treatments & Procedures:
- Immobilization with a sling or shoulder immobilizer
- Pain management with medications
- Physical therapy for shoulder mobility and strength
- Surgery in cases of displaced fractures or associated injuries
- Imaging to monitor healing progress
Additional Services & Procedures
We've highlighted some of the most common services—please explore the conditions list for treatments by condition.
Computer-Navigated Shoulder Replacement
Overview:
Computer-navigated shoulder replacement is an advanced surgical technique that uses real-time imaging and computer guidance to enhance the precision of implant placement during shoulder joint replacement. This technology allows surgeons to plan and execute the procedure with greater accuracy, improving joint alignment and function.
Conditions Treated:
- Shoulder osteoarthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Proximal humerus fracture
Before the Procedure:
Before surgery, you’ll have a thorough medical evaluation that includes a review of your health history, a physical exam, and imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans. These scans are used to create a 3D model of your shoulder, allowing your surgeon to plan the procedure with high precision. In some cases, pre-surgery physical therapy (prehab) may be recommended to improve shoulder strength and mobility in preparation for recovery..
After the Procedure:
After the procedure, our care team will monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia and manage any discomfort with pain medications. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two days, but some may return home the same day, depending on individual circumstances. Expect to wear a sling for a few weeks and undergo physical therapy to help restore movement and gradually build strength. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to track your healing and implant position. While most people return to light daily activities within a few weeks, full recovery typically takes three to six months.
Total or Partial Joint Arthroplasty (Reconstruction)
Overview:
Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves repairing, remodeling, or replacing a damaged joint to restore its function and relieve pain. It's commonly performed on hips, knees, shoulders, and other joints affected by arthritis, injury, or degeneration. There are two primary types of arthroplasty procedures: total and partial. Total involves replacing the entire joint surface with artificial parts while partial involves replacing only the damaged parts. For example, with a total reverse shoulder arthroplasty, the ball and socket positions are switched to allow the deltoid muscle (instead of the rotator cuff) to lift the arm. With a partial elbow arthroplasty, the damaged parts of the elbow joint are removed and replaced with artificial components (implants).
Conditions Treated:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Joint deformities
- Severe joint fractures
- Avascular necrosis
- Certain congenital joint disorders
- Joint damage from infections or tumors
Before the Procedure:
- Medical evaluation including physical exam and imaging (X-rays, MRI)
- Discussion of surgical risks, benefits, and options
- Instructions on medications and fasting before surgery
- Preoperative planning for anesthesia and postoperative care
- Preparing your home and arranging help during recovery
After the Procedure:
- Most procedures can be performed as day surgery
- Advanced pain management with regional nerve blocks and medication
- Early physical therapy to restore movement and strength
- Use of assistive devices (walker, cane) as needed
- Wound care and monitoring for infection
- Follow-up visits to track healing and progress
- Gradual return to daily activities over weeks to months
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Your Care Team
Each provider may treat different conditions. Click on a profile to see their areas of specialty.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why should I choose a fellowship trained shoulder & elbow surgeon?
Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons complete an additional year of specialized training after medical school and residency, focusing on complex cases in their chosen subspecialty. This concentrated training enhances their surgical, clinical, and research skills, making them experts in areas like shoulder and elbow care. Our fellowship-trained shoulder and elbow surgeon at UTMB provides highly specialized diagnosis and treatment and is a member of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), reflecting advanced expertise in the field. -
What should I expect during my visit?
The initial visit will include a comprehensive medical history evaluation and full examination of the area concerned by one of our fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons. Additional diagnostic imaging such an X-ray or MRI may be necessary to assist in determining a diagnosis. Once a diagnosis has been determined, your surgeon will develop a treatment plan that may include medication, injections, physical therapy, or surgery. -
What if surgery is recommended? What should I expect?
If surgery is recommended by our orthopedic surgeons, pre-operative instructions, details about your operation and recovery treatment plan will be discussed in depth with your physician prior to your operation. Generally, procedures for the shoulder and elbow require day surgery and do not require an overnight stay at the hospital. Upon discharge, assistive devices such as a brace, sling, or splint to immobilize the joint, will be provided by our UTMB staff. Also, conveniently located at our Galveston, League City, and Clear Lake campuses are outpatient pharmacies prepared to fill any post-operative pain management medications you are prescribed upon discharge. -
What if I am not ready for surgery?
If surgery is not for you at this time, non-surgical options such as rest, pain management prescriptions, injections, and physical therapy are available to address your injury. Our League City, Clear Lake, and Galveston campuses include both convenient outpatient pharmacies prepared to dispense medication and feature physical therapy facilities to help you regain strength and mobility in the affected area. -
When should I see a shoulder specialist?
If you have persistent pain, weakness, limited motion, or recurrent dislocations that don’t improve with rest or initial treatments, it’s time to consult a specialist.
All Orthopedic Specialties
Our Locations
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