The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the human body – giving you the freedom to move your arms to the front, back and side, as well as up and down. And while its complexity makes life convenient, it also makes injuries more common. That’s why we’ve selected the top specialty-trained surgeons in the state to relieve everything from sports injuries to degenerative diseases. As the largest orthopaedic team in Michigan, we have the expertise and experience to provide comprehensive care that improves your strength, increases your range of motion and inspires a greater quality of life. So, don’t shrug off shoulder pain. If soreness is slowing you down, see a specialist at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Shoulder arthritis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the shoulder joint, which leads to the breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions and enables effortless movement between the humeral head (ball) and glenoid (socket) bones. As the cartilage wears down, the bones can rub together, causing pain, grinding, and stiffness (reduced range of motion) in the shoulder. This condition is also known as glenohumeral arthritis, affecting the primary ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder. Common types of shoulder arthritis include osteoarthritis, cuff tear arthropathy, post-traumatic arthritis, avascular necrosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
A tear in the labrum due to shoulder dislocation, commonly seen in younger athletes.
A rupture of the upper biceps tendon from wear, trauma, or lifting injuries.
Often results from falls or contact sports.
Inflammation of the bursa from repetitive use, trauma, or impingement.
A torn rotator cuff weakens the shoulder – inhibiting daily activities such as sleeping, dressing or combing the hair, and it often becomes more painful and difficult with time. It’s one of the most common causes of pain and disability among adults.
When one or more of the rotator cuff tendons is torn, the tendon is no longer fully attached to the head of the humerus. In many cases, torn tendons begin with fraying and, as the damage progresses, the tendon tears completely.
There are two main causes of rotator cuff tears: injury and degeneration. For example, if a patient falls down on an outstretched arm or lifts something too heavy with a jerking motion, the rotator cuff can tear. This type of tear can occur in conjunction with other shoulder injuries, such as a broken collarbone or dislocated shoulder. However, most tears are the result of the tendon simply wearing down over time. This degeneration naturally occurs as the body ages.
Rotator cuff tears are more common in the dominant arm. If a patient has a degenerative tear in one shoulder, there is a greater likelihood of a rotator cuff tear in the opposite shoulder.
Injury to the AC joint, usually from a fall onto the shoulder.
Cartilage breakdown from aging, injury, or autoimmune conditions.
The upper arm bone is forced out of the socket, usually from trauma.
Tendons are compressed during shoulder movement, often due to bone spurs or overuse.
A proximal humerus fracture refers to a break near the top of the upper arm bone, close to the shoulder joint. It’s most commonly caused by falls, especially in older adults with osteoporosis, or high-energy trauma such as car accidents or sports injuries in younger patients.
A pectoralis major tear involves the tearing of the large chest muscle that connects to the upper arm. This injury most often occurs during forceful activities like weightlifting, particularly bench pressing, or during trauma such as falls or contact sports.
A failed shoulder replacement can occur due to infection, component loosening, instability, rotator cuff failure, or persistent pain after the original joint replacement surgery. These issues can arise months or years after surgery and may worsen over time.
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