Shoulder and Elbow Injury

People experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms should seek medical care, especially if pain is debilitating and movement has been significantly limited. Diagnostic tests to identify the type of injury sustained may include:

• Physical examination
• X-ray
• MRI or ultrasound
• CT scan
• Electromyography (EMG), which monitors electrical activity and nerve response of muscles
• Biopsy of bursae fluid, in which fluid from the bursa—a sac that cushions the joints—is collected and examined

In mild cases, ample rest, appropriate ice and heat therapy may suffice. In moderate cases, immobilisation, physiotherapy and medications may be needed. If the pain persists, or if the injury was too severe to begin with, doctors may recommend surgery to treat it. Common surgical procedures include:

• Arthroscopy – This is a minimally invasive procedure wherein the surgeon performs joint surgery through tiny incisions, instead of a traditional long incision. It is also used to diagnose joint problems.
• Rotator cuff surgery – This involves repairing a torn tendon in the shoulder by stitching it back to its original place.
• Shoulder or elbow joint replacement – Depending on the extent of damage, the joint may be fully or partially replaced using prosthetic parts.

The Bone and Joint Centre is an orthopaedic clinic in Singapore that diagnoses and treats a complete range of orthopaedic problems, including shoulder and elbow injuries:

• Rotator cuff injuries and tears
• Shoulder dislocation and instability
• Shoulder “keyhole” surgery
• Frozen shoulder
• Fractures
• Osteoarthritis
• Tendinitis
• Tennis elbow
• Golfer’s elbow
• Elbow ligament injury

At The Bone and Joint Centre, we are well-equipped to perform a full range of diagnostic tests and treatments for all shoulder and elbow conditions. Contact us for a detailed assessment today.