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Discover compassionate care and effective solutions for shoulder injuries at Wisconsin Medical Group. Led by our expert shoulder injury specialist, we're dedicated to restoring your shoulder's strength and mobility. Experience personalized treatment plans and advanced techniques for your recovery journey. Schedule a consultation with our shoulder injury doctor today for a healthier shoulder tomorrow.

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Common Shoulder Injuries We Treat

One of the most common shoulder injuries involves a torn rotator cuff, often caused by repetitive overhead activities. Other common injuries we see and treat are:

  • Sprains and strains: A sprain is an injury to a ligament, while a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. These types of injuries are often caused by overuse or sudden, intense movements.
  • Fractures: A fracture is a break to the bone. Shoulder fractures can occur in the collarbone (clavicle), upper arm bone (humerus), or shoulder blade (scapula).
  • Dislocations: A dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder joint. This can cause damage to the surrounding ligaments and tendons if not treated.
  • Tendinitis and bursitis: Tendinitis is inflammation of a tendon, while bursitis is inflammation of a bursa. These conditions can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the shoulder.
  • Rotator cuff injuries: A rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone. Rotator cuff injuries can include tears, inflammation, and impingement.
  • Frozen shoulder: Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes the shoulder joint to become stiff and painful. It is often accompanied by a loss of range of motion.
  • Separated shoulder: A separated shoulder occurs when the collarbone is separated from the shoulder blade as a result of a fall or other impact.
  • AC joint injuries: The AC joint is the joint at the top of the shoulder. An AC joint injury can be a sprain or separation of this joint.
  • Labral tears: The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder joint. A labral tear can occur due to trauma or overuse and can cause pain, instability, and difficulty moving the arm.
  • Shoulder impingement syndrome: Shoulder impingement syndrome is a condition that occurs when the tendons or bursae in the shoulder become compressed or pinched. It can cause pain, weakness, and difficulty moving the arm.

If you have pain or other symptoms in your shoulder, it is important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Common signs or symptoms of a torn rotator cuff include:

  • Persistent shoulder pain, particularly when lifting or reaching.
  • Weakness in the affected arm, impacting daily tasks.
  • Difficulty with overhead movements.
  • Reduced shoulder range of motion, affecting activities like dressing or hair combing.

If you're experiencing these symptoms, seek advice from us for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment to prevent future permanent damage.

Shoulder injury doctor in Milwaukee: pain, bruising, and broken
Shoulder injury physician: treatment and diagnosis

Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

There are many potential causes of shoulder pain, and the specific cause can vary depending on the individual and their activities. Some common activities or factors that contribute to shoulder pain include:

  • Overuse injuries: Repetitive motions or activities that strain the shoulder muscles and tendons can lead to overuse injuries such as tendinitis.
  • Trauma: Falls, car accidents, and other traumatic events can cause fractures, dislocations, and other injuries to the shoulder.
  • Poor posture: Maintaining poor posture for extended periods of time, such as sitting at a desk or in front of a computer with poor posture, can lead to shoulder pain and muscle imbalances.
  • Weak shoulder muscles: Weak shoulder muscles can contribute to shoulder pain and instability, especially in people who engage in activities that require overhead arm movement.
  • Age: As we age, the risk of developing shoulder pain or injuries increases due to changes in the muscles, tendons, and bones.

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, it is important to see the Milwaukee shoulder specialists at Wisconsin Medical Group to get the diagnosis and treatment you need.

Average Recovery Time for Shoulder Injuries

A mild shoulder injury can take four to six weeks to fully recover and be ready for activity again. Recovery time heavily depends on the type of injury and severity. Here is what you can expect for recovery time for common injuries:

Type of Shoulder Injury

Mild Injury Recovery Time
Moderate Injury Recovery Time
Fractures
1-2 Weeks
6-8 Weeks
Dislocations
Up to 12 Weeks
Up to 12 Weeks
Tendonitis and Bursitis
2-4 Weeks
2-3 Months
Rotator Cuff
4-6 Months
6-12 Months
Frozen Shoulder
1.5 Years
3 Years
AC Joint
1-2 Weeks
6 Weeks
Labral Tears
3 Months
4-6 Months
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
3-6 Months
Up to 1 Year

 

Allow our shoulder specialist to check you out to provide the easiest road to recovery. Contact us for an appointment today.

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Treatment for Work-Related Shoulder Injuries

If you injured your shoulder at work or because of a situation you were put in for work, it’s important to seek medical attention while your injuries are fresh. Wisconsin Medical Group in Milwaukee diagnoses and treats work-related shoulder injuries. We will assess your injuries and provide the necessary treatment and documentation you need to fully recover.

If you’re seeking workers’ compensation for your injuries, it’s important you go with a physician like WMG to make sure you check all the necessary boxes to win the compensation you deserve. You do not have to use the physician your employer provides for your work injury. It’s necessary to work with a 3rd party physician like WMG so you get an accurate, unbiased diagnosis.

Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment.

How are shoulder injuries diagnosed?

Shoulder injuries are typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests (such as X-rays or MRI), and other diagnostic tests as needed.

How are shoulder injuries treated?

Treatment options for shoulder injuries will depend on the specific injury and may include rest, physical therapy, medication, or surgery.

Why is my shoulder stiff?

Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes the should joint to become stiff.

What does a torn shoulder feel like?

A torn shoulder causes persistent shoulder pain, weakness in daily tasks, and reduced range of motion.

How long does it take to recover from a dislocated shoulder?

It can take up to 12 weeks to recover from a dislocated shoulder.