Dallas Shoulder Impingement Surgeon

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or bursa become compressed beneath the acromion, part of the acromioclavicular joint. The acromion is the bony projection of the shoulder blade, one of the three bones forming the glenohumeral joint, the most flexible ball-and-socket joint in the body. When impingement occurs, it can cause severe shoulder pain and restrict movement in the shoulder joint, affecting shoulder function such as forward flexion and internal and external rotation. Inflammation, bone spurs, and overuse, common causes of shoulder injuries, can all cause shoulder impingement.

This compression, which occurs within the subacromial space, or the area between the acromion and the rotator cuff tendons, can lead to inflammatory responses and tissue damage. Tendons and bursa are then repeatedly pinched, become inflamed and swollen, further narrowing the subacromial space and exacerbating the impingement. Over time, this chronic irritation can contribute to the development of bone spurs on the acromion, which further impinge on the soft tissues, leading to a need for shoulder surgery, performed by an experienced Dallas shoulder impingement surgeon.

A Dallas shoulder impingement surgeon is checking a patient's condition.

The Procedures & Treatment Options for this Shoulder Surgery

Initially, conservative methods like rest, targeted physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility of the shoulder muscles, and medications such as NSAIDs or corticosteroid injections are explored. Activity modification is also critical to prevent recurrence. If conservative treatments fail, surgical options like subacromial decompression, acromioplasty (reshaping the acromion), or rotator cuff repair (if a torn rotator cuff is present) may be considered.

Shoulder impingement surgery is an outpatient procedure that typically involves a subacromial decompression using arthroscopic surgery techniques, using a tiny camera for precise repairs, and offering reduced recovery time compared to open surgery. This minimally invasive surgery removes bone spurs and inflamed soft tissue beneath the acromion to alleviate pressure on the rotator cuff and bursa, restoring shoulder function and reducing inflammation.

Your orthopedic surgeon has provided some general guidelines to help you recover faster and more efficiently here; however, you are encouraged to follow any specific guidelines provided by your shoulder doctor, often a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive techniques and personalized treatment plans, as those take precedence.

FAQS

Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or bursa are compressed beneath the acromion, which is the bony part of the shoulder blade and shoulder socket. Causes include inflammation, bone spurs, and overuse, and repetitive overhead movement, often seen in athletes, leading to tendon irritation from compression.

The most common symptoms include things like; shoulder pain, especially with overhead movement, weakness, and limited range of motion. This condition can result in persistent shoulder pain and may require specialized shoulder care, including nonsurgical treatments or minimally invasive shoulder surgery (using small incisions) performed by a Dallas shoulder impingement surgeon.

Shoulder impingement involves compression of soft tissues, meanwhile a rotator cuff tear involves actual tearing of the tendons. Rotator cuff tears often occur due to aging, leading to rotator cuff surgery.

At Dr. Thornton’s medical center, diagnosis involves a physical examination by a fellowship-trained shoulder specialist, medical history review, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to evaluate the upper arm bone, humeral head, and surrounding blood vessels for rotator cuff injuries, torn labrum, or shoulder instability.

Clients find that surgery is often successful in reducing pain and improving function in the most flexible joint in the body. It is important to note, however, that full recovery can take several weeks to months, especially when total shoulder replacement is involved, and our team at Thornton MD is here to support you every step of the way!

What to Eat or Drink Following Your Procedure

Unless noted by your healthcare provider, you have no restrictions on your diet following your procedure. There are, however, some things you can do to make the process of easing back into your regular diet easier:

After shoulder impingement surgery, you may experience nausea. We recommend consuming light foods for the first 24 hours. Crackers, plain rice, oatmeal and soup are usually well-tolerated.
Avoid heavy or greasy foods for the first few days. Prescription pain medication may make these foods less tolerable.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you experience severe case of nausea or vomiting, contact our office as soon as possible.

Caring for Incisions

Your doctor made incisions in and around the area during your surgery. Below are some general instructions to protect your incisions:

You may remove the surgical dressing on day 3 after your procedure
If your dressing becomes saturated before your follow-up appointment, wrap it in sterile gauze instead of removing it.
You need to keep your incision area dry to promote healing and prevent infection. You may begin taking showers 24 hours after discharge, but keep your incisions covered. You can use a plastic covering or wrap the area in a plastic bag to prevent exposure.
Unless your doctor has prescribed a topical medication, avoid creams, lotions, oils and other topical skincare products on or around the surgical site.
Once we remove your stitches or sutures, you will be provided further instructions regarding showers. In general, you can begin showering regularly after we have removed the stitches or sutures; however, you should still avoid immersing the area in water, and you should pat the area dry instead of rubbing it.

Pain and Medication Guidelines

*The following are general aftercare guidelines for the use of medications. Your doctor will provide specific instructions as they pertain to your health, prescriptions and procedure.

Local anesthesia from your procedure will wear off within 6-10 hours. Pain typically reaches its peak on day 2-3. You may also experience an increase in swelling in the first 48 hours.
Follow all directions listed on the label of your prescription pain medication. Do not take more than the recommended dose. If you find that your prescription does not provide adequate relief or causes allergic reaction, contact our office for options.
Prescription pain medications can cause side effects that include feeling drowsy or dizzy, feeling tired or sleepy and feeling uncoordinated. We recommend having a caregiver with you during the initial stages of recovery to help you manage basic tasks.
If you experience excessive bleeding, severe nausea, or vomiting, contact our office at once.
Do not attempt to drive while under the influence of prescription pain medications. Your doctor will let you know when it is safe for you to resume driving.
Blood clots can be a potential risk for some patients taking certain medications. Let your doctor know if you have a health history or are at an elevated risk for developing clots. A low-dose aspirin may be ordered temporarily to reduce this risk.

Your Mobility Following Shoulder Impingement Surgery

While resting, place a pillow under your forearm to support your operative shoulder.
Use the provided sling as directed. Your Dallas shoulder impingement specialist will give you specific instructions regarding exercises. In general, you will use your sling for 2-3 days following surgery.
Refrain from activities that may strain your shoulder, such as overhead lifting, repetitive reaching or pushing against resistance.
Upon returning to work, discuss accommodations with your workplace. Sedentary work environments that don’t involve shoulder movements should be considered until your doctor clears you for more intensive tasks.

Proper Usage of Your Sling

Wear your sling continuously until your doctor clears you to remove it. Do not sleep on the operative side of your body.
The sling offers temporary protection and comfort but is not intended for extended use in impingement recovery.
If you need to make adjustments to your sling or would like to discuss removal for personal hygiene, contact our office.

Use a Cold Pack for Swelling

Apply cold therapy to your shoulder for 20-30 minutes at a time every 2-3 hours. This can reduce swelling and pain.
Keep the surgical site dry. Always place a protective barrier, such as a towel or cloth, between the ice pack and your skin to prevent frostbite.

Movement and Stretching Guidelines

Perform gentle exercises, such as finger and wrist movements, along with assisted range-of-motion exercises, as directed by your Dallas shoulder impingement doctor. These exercises can prevent stiffness, but do not push yourself. If a movement causes severe pain, discontinue the movement and contact our office.
Perform exercises 3-4 times daily to promote circulation and progressively restore mobility. Adhere to any specific restrictions put in place by your doctor.
Your shoulder surgeon may have ordered physical therapy. Our office can help you coordinate an appointment.

CALL US IF…

Reach out right away if you notice:

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Severe, persistent pain that does not improve with medication or radiates through your upper arm.
Fever, chills, infection, redness, off-color discharge.
Severe swelling, tingling, numbness or skin discoloration, particularly in the hand, fingers or forearm.
Respiratory distress or chest discomfort.
Bleeding or persistent fluid leakage at the incision site.

Shoulder Impingement can be Frustrating. Find relief from Shoulder Pain with help from a Dallas Shoulder Impingement Surgeon Today.

Contact Dr. Thornton’s office to learn about effective treatment strategies and start your journey towards a healthier shoulder with exceptional shoulder care.

We also provide treatment for other shoulder conditions, including AC joint injuries, shoulder instability, frozen shoulder, and labral (SLAP) tears.

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