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Treatments for a range of shoulder instability issues

Grimacing, bare-chested man clutching shoulder in painOur shoulders have a greater range of motion than any other joint in the body, and consist of a complex ball-and-socket network of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bone. Unfortunately, its range of motion also means the shoulder is less stable than other joints. If you are struggling with shoulder instability (a condition caused by repetitive strain, overuse, or trauma), dislocation, or multidirectional instability (usually affecting people who are "double-jointed"), we can help. Dr. David Rudman treats shoulder instability at our Bergen County practice, serving patients throughout New Jersey. We can treat problems ranging from labral tears, SLAP tears, torn rotator cuffs and glenoid deficiencies.  To learn more about how we can help you regain your active lifestyle, schedule a consultation with us today. 

Addressing a Common Problem

Shoulder instability occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) is forced out of, or unable to stay in, the shoulder socket. The ball, made up of the end of the humerus, is usually held in place by strong connective tissues and muscles. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including traumatic injury (such as a motor vehicle accident or sports injury), overuse, or may be related to glenoid (socket) deficiency.  All factors need to be evaluated and addressed for treatment to be successful.

Dislocations can be partial (a subluxation), meaning the ball slips partly out of the socket, or complete. Once the shoulder has slipped out of place, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments can become torn or loose, making the joint  much more prone to future dislocations. The shoulder may actually be so traumatized that it has trouble staying in its socket with activities of daily living. 

Dr. Rudman is highly skilled in non-operative and surgical treatments for instability.  Dr. Rudman employs advanced arthroscopic techniques for treatment of labral or SLAP tears.  If glenoid deficiency is present the Laterjet procedure (an advanced technique used to restore stability to the shoulder) can be performed.  Dr. Rudman is one of the few doctors in the area who performs this surgery. Furthermore, Dr. Rudman has earned a reputation for excellence, and he is deeply committed to our patients' entire healing process. He lives an active lifestyle himself, and wants to ensure that his patients can enjoy their hobbies and interests without pain or inhibited movement for years to come.

Surgical Solutions for Shoulder Instability

Dr. Rudman prefers a conservative approach to treatment, and whenever possible, performs surgical procedures arthroscopically. He is proficient in correcting superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears, injuries to the labrum of the shoulder, rotator cuff injuries, and more. After surgery, patients can expect to wear a sling for up to a month, and usually approach full recovery within four months. Physical therapy will be used to improve the range of motion of the shoulder, and appropriate strength training can be used to rehabilitate the muscles. Barring complications, you could be shooting hoops or getting back your golf swing faster than you may have thought possible.

Partner with a Winning Surgeon

Dr. Rudman is passionate about patient care, and he has built his practice upon the cornerstone of patient respect. He is committed to providing you with the most up-to-date information at all times. He believes that educating patients is a great way to collaborate with them, and that this approach produces better post-surgical results. He has spent years studying the most advanced procedures, and sharing that information with other surgeons. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

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Specialty Orthopaedics of New Jersey, P.A.

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