Shoulder

Overview Nerves and blood vessels can be compressed in the space between your clavicle (collar bone) and your top rib.  This space is called the “thoracic outlet” and the disorders caused by this compression are collectively called thoracic outlet syndrome.   Causes Many conditions cause tho…

Overview The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that collectively holds the “ball” of your upper arm bone in the “socket” of your shoulder joint.  The rotator cuff stabilizes your arm and allows shoulder movement.  Rotator cuff tears are painful injuries resulting from too much physic…

Overview Rotator cuff surgery repairs injured tissues in your shoulder joint.  The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that collectively holds the “ball” of your upper arm bone in the “socket” of your shoulder joint.   Preparation In preparation for the surgery, you lie on your ba…

Overview A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan lets doctors see inside your body.  Unlike x-rays that use radiation to show bony structures, MRIs use magnets and radio waves to show soft tissues.   Preparation You will need to remove glasses, jewelry, hearing aids, dentures, and other item…

Overview The shoulder is comprised of three separate joints that work together for extensive range of  motion. Here is a closer look at the main parts of the shoulder’s anatomy. Bones The shoulder involves three bones; the humerus (upper arm bone), the scapula (“shoulder blade”), and the clavicle…