Shoulder

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help keep the ball of the joint in place. A rotator cuff tear is a common injury that can occur due to overuse or trauma. Symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include pain and weakness in the shoulder, as well as a loss of range of motion. Treatment for a rotator cuff tear typically involves rest, ice, and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. A rotator cuff tear can be a serious injury, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, most people can make a full recovery.

Surgical treatment of the rotator cuff are among the most common procedures Dr. Timmerman performs. She is known for her excellent results, including quick recoveries and return to daily activities. Dr. Timmerman works with top-notch physical therapists so her patients enjoy only the briefest downtime following surgery.

The labrum is a ring of cartilage holding the ball of the shoulder joint in place. It works to provide stability for the head of the humerus (arm bone). Labral tears occur due to many reasons including trauma, overuse, and repetitive motion.

Having a labral tear is painful and causes various problems. Loss of mobility and a decreased capacity to do normal activities are some of the debilitating problems associated with labral tears. Fortunately, Dr. Timmerman, with her decades of experience, will provide you with the best possible treatment for your injury. Whether you need surgery or conservative treatment, you are in safe hands!

The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint that allows for a wide range of motion. However, this mobility also makes the shoulder more susceptible to instability. Shoulder instability can be caused by several factors, including muscle weakness, ligament laxity, or joint looseness. This condition may include symptoms like pain, popping or clicking sensations, and difficulty moving the arm. With proper treatment, most people with shoulder instability can regain normal function and range of motion. Treatment could include therapy or stabilization.

Loose bodies in the shoulder joint are a common source of pain and discomfort. They can occur when the articular cartilage breaks down, allowing pieces of bone or cartilage to float freely in the joint. While most loose bodies are small and cause no symptoms, larger ones can interfere with joint movement and cause pain, stiffness, and clicking. In some cases, they may also lead to arthritis.

Loose bodies can be removed with a simple arthroscopic procedure.

The acromioclavicular (AC) joint is located where the collarbone (clavicle) meets the shoulder blade (scapula). This joint is held together by ligaments, which can be stretched or torn if the shoulder is dislocated. For many athletes, a separated shoulder occurs when the ligaments are completely torn, displacing the clavicle. An AC joint separation requires surgical reattachment of tendon to bone, a procedure Dr. Timmerman commonly performs. The usual cause of an AC separation is a fall onto an outstretched hand. Symptoms include pain and swelling at the joint, along with tenderness when pressure is applied.

AC joint separation is classified into three grades depending on the severity of the injury. Grade I separation involves partial tearing of the ligaments and intact joint, while a grade III refers to a complete separation of the joint. Treatment typically involves immobilizing the shoulder in a sling or splint, followed by physical therapy to regain range of motion. Surgery may sometimes be necessary to repair the damaged ligaments or reposition the clavicle.

Biceps tendonitis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the biceps tendon, the tissue that connects the biceps muscle to the bone. The condition is often caused by overuse or repetitive motions, and it can occur in both athletes and non-athletes alike. Symptoms of bicep tendonitis include pain when extending the arm, weakness in the arm, and tenderness when touching the affected area.

A biceps tear is another common injury affecting the biceps tendon. This can occur due to a sudden force being applied to the arm, such as when lifting a heavy object, or due to repetitive stress. Symptoms of a biceps tendon tear include pain and swelling in the arm, weakness in the affected arm, and a popping or snapping sensation when the injury occurs. For many athletes, a biceps tendon injury requires a surgical fix (stitching) of the tendon. While a biceps tendon tear is debilitating, Dr. Timmerman will help you regain your strength safely and effectively.

Shoulder arthritis is a condition that causes the deterioration of the cartilage in the shoulder joint. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion. Although shoulder arthritis is most commonly seen in older adults, it can also occur in younger people who have suffered an injury to the shoulder joint or who have another medical condition. In many cases, combining various treatments may be necessary to achieve the best possible outcome. Dr. Timmerman offers surgical treatments, shoulder arthritis exercises, PRP therapy, Regenokine®, and other treatment modalities for her patients with shoulder arthritis.