ADVANCED ROTATOR CUFF INJURIES TREATMENT

Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears are one of the most frequent causes of shoulder dysfunction, especially in active adults and older patients. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for lifting and rotation. Tears can occur suddenly with trauma or gradually from wear and tear.

Dr. Swanson uses advanced imaging and physical exams to identify both partial and full-thickness tears. Treatment may involve physical therapy, biologic injections like PRP, or arthroscopic surgery. With a patient-specific approach, he restores shoulder strength while minimizing downtime, so you can get back to living pain-free.

TREATING THE SOURCE OF COMMON SHOULDER PAIN SYMPTOMS

Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joint wears away, leading to stiffness, grinding, and persistent pain. It may affect the ball-and-socket joint (glenohumeral arthritis) or the smaller acromioclavicular (AC) joint at the top of the shoulder.

Initial care may include activity modification, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections. If symptoms persist, Dr. Swanson may recommend advanced options such as PRP, Tactoset for bone defects, or shoulder replacement surgery.

SLAP TEAR SURGERY FROM A SHOULDER PAIN DOCTOR NEAR YOU

SLAP Tears

A SLAP tear involves the superior labrum, which is the cartilage at the top of the shoulder socket where the biceps tendon attaches. It’s a common injury in athletes who throw or lift overhead, but it can also result from falls or heavy lifting. Symptoms may include deep shoulder pain, clicking or catching, and decreased strength.

Dr. Swanson uses clinical tests and imaging to accurately diagnose SLAP lesions. Treatment often starts conservatively, but persistent cases may require arthroscopic SLAP repair or biceps tenodesis. By targeting the exact location of the injury, Dr. Swanson restores shoulder function and helps prevent long-term instability or weakness.

TREATING BICEP TENDON TEARS WITH PRECISION

Bicep Tears

Biceps tendon tears, especially of the long head at the shoulder joint, can lead to pain, cramping, and a visible bulge in the arm. These injuries are common in older adults and overhead athletes, often linked to rotator cuff disease or overuse.

Dr. Swanson evaluates whether the tear is partial or complete and considers your activity level when building a treatment plan. Many cases respond well to conservative care, but active individuals may benefit from biceps tenodesis, a procedure that repositions the tendon to restore strength and reduce pain. With a minimally invasive approach, he helps patients regain function without prolonged recovery.

EXPERT SHOULDER DISLOCATION TREATMENT TO RESTORE STABILITY

Shoulder Dislocations

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the head of the humerus slips out of the socket, typically due to trauma or a fall. Once it happens, the risk of repeated dislocations rises, especially in younger or more active patients.

Dr. Swanson evaluates the damage with imaging and physical exams, assessing both soft tissue and bone integrity. First-time dislocations may be treated non-surgically, but recurrent instability often requires arthroscopic Bankart repair, and in some cases, remplissage if bone loss is present. These stability-focused techniques can help you return to sport, work, and life without fear of another pop or slip.

REPAIRING THE ROOT CAUSE OF SHOULDER INSTABILITY

Bankart Tears

Bankart tears affect the front portion of the shoulder labrum and often result from traumatic dislocations. This injury stretches or detaches the labrum and ligaments that normally keep the shoulder stable. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic instability, repeated dislocations, and shoulder weakness.

Dr. Swanson offers arthroscopic Bankart repair, a minimally invasive technique that reattaches the labrum and restores joint stability. For cases with bone loss, he may also recommend remplissage to address lesions. With early, targeted treatment, most patients regain full stability and avoid long-term joint damage.

FROZEN SHOULDER TREATMENT FROM AN ORTHOPEDIC SPECIALIST

Adhesive Capsulitis

More commonly known as frozen shoulder, adhesive capsulitis occurs when the joint capsule thickens and tightens, restricting movement and causing pain. This condition may arise spontaneously or after injury or surgery, and it often progresses through three stages:

• Freezing (increasing pain)
• Frozen (limited movement)
• Thawing (gradual improvement)

Dr. Swanson begins with conservative treatment,but if mobility remains limited, he may recommend a procedure like arthroscopic capsular release to restore range of motion. By identifying and addressing each stage, Dr. Swanson helps patients regain shoulder movement and return to daily life without stiffness and frustration.