ArthroSport · Patient guide

Shoulder treatment in Salem

Shoulder pain, weakness and repeated dislocation can interfere with sleep, work and sport. ArthroSport provides shoulder consultations with Dr. Karthiekeyan Ganesan to assess the cause and discuss treatment options.

Finding the cause

Rotator cuff problems, instability, labral injuries, frozen shoulder and arthritis can produce different patterns of symptoms. Tell the clinician about any injury, painful movements, weakness and episodes of dislocation. Examination and imaging when appropriate help distinguish these problems.

Treatment options

Depending on the diagnosis, options may include activity changes, rehabilitation and other non-surgical treatment. Arthroscopic repair or stabilisation may be considered for selected problems. Ask what improvement is expected, what risks matter in your case and what rehabilitation will involve.

After a shoulder dislocation

Seek prompt medical attention for a suspected dislocation and do not attempt to put the shoulder back yourself. Assessment checks for associated injuries and guides follow-up. A first dislocation and repeated instability may require different treatment discussions.

Recovery after arthroscopy

Recovery depends on what was done during the operation. Rotator cuff repair and shoulder stabilisation have different protection and rehabilitation needs. Ask for advice about sling use, sleep, daily activities, work and sport from your treating team.

Your questions, answered

What causes shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can result from rotator cuff injuries, shoulder instability, labral injuries, frozen shoulder, arthritis, tendon problems and sports-related overuse. The location of pain, provoking movements, weakness, instability and examination help determine the likely cause.

Does a rotator cuff tear always require surgery?

No. Treatment depends on the type and size of the tear, symptoms, functional limitations, age, activity level and response to non-surgical treatment. Many patients can initially be treated with rehabilitation and activity modification. Arthroscopic repair may be considered for selected symptomatic tears.

What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear?

Symptoms may include shoulder pain, weakness, difficulty lifting the arm and pain during overhead activities. Some tears occur after an injury while others develop gradually. Clinical examination and appropriate imaging can help determine the diagnosis.

What should I do after a first-time shoulder dislocation?

A shoulder dislocation should be evaluated promptly by a medical professional. Do not attempt to relocate the shoulder yourself. X-rays may be required, followed by appropriate immobilization and rehabilitation. Further treatment depends on age, activity level, recurrence and associated injuries.

Can a shoulder dislocation happen again?

Yes. Some patients develop recurrent shoulder instability after a first dislocation. Risk varies according to factors such as age, activity level and associated injuries involving the labrum or bone. Treatment may involve rehabilitation or surgical stabilization when clinically indicated.

What is a Bankart tear?

A Bankart tear is an injury to the labrum at the front-lower part of the shoulder socket, commonly associated with shoulder dislocation or instability. Depending on symptoms, instability and associated injuries, treatment may include rehabilitation or arthroscopic stabilization.

What is a SLAP tear?

A SLAP tear is an injury involving the upper portion of the shoulder labrum near its attachment to the biceps tendon. Symptoms may include deep shoulder pain, clicking or discomfort during overhead activities. Treatment depends on symptoms, age, activity and associated findings.

What is shoulder arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure using a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through small incisions. It can be used for selected conditions such as rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability and labral injuries.

How long does it take to recover after shoulder arthroscopy?

Recovery depends on the procedure performed. Rehabilitation after a simple arthroscopic procedure may differ substantially from recovery after rotator cuff repair or shoulder stabilization. Rehabilitation progresses from protecting repaired structures to restoring movement, strength and function.

Can shoulder instability be treated without surgery?

Some patients with shoulder instability can improve with structured rehabilitation focusing on shoulder strength, movement control and stability. Surgery may be considered for selected patients with recurrent instability or associated structural injuries. Treatment should be individualized.

This guide provides general patient information. Diagnosis, treatment and recovery advice depend on an individual clinical assessment.

Further reading

Patient education from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

Discuss your next step

Consult Dr. Karthiekeyan Ganesan in Salem. Bring prior scan images, reports and consultation notes if available.