Early detection is the key to preventing serious shoulder injuries. Often, exercise aimed at strengthening shoulder muscles is prescribed. Anti-inflammatory medication may also help to reduce pain and swelling. Advanced shoulder arthritis that causes disabling pain and limits motion can be successfully treated with a joint replacement thus allowing people to resume normal lives.

Rotator Cuff: The incidence of rotator cuff damage increases with age and is most frequently due to degeneration of the major tendon of the shoulder. Treatment varies from rehabilitation to surgical repair of the rotator cuff. The best treatment method is determined based on the individual's severity of symptoms and functional requirements.

Shoulder Dislocation: When the humerus or upper arm bone dislocates from the socket.

Shoulder Separation: When the clavicle or collar bone separates from the acromion. This is sometimes called an AC joint injury.

Shoulder Instability: Laxity of the ligaments that provide stability for the shoulder joint.

Shoulder Impingement: Pain on elevation of the arm often caused by bone spurs of the acromion.

S.L.A.P. Tear: A tear of the labrum which causes pain often while throwing a ball.

Osteoarthritis: Loss of articular cartilage causing pain due to exposed bone.

SPECIALISTS:
•  Dr. Steven Kalandiak
•  Dr. Lee Kaplan

Acute elbow injuries are caused by trauma, while chronic elbow injuries typically stem from overuse. A detailed history and physical exam are essential in order to pinpoint the source of pain and make a specific diagnosis.

SPECIALISTS:
•  Dr. Steven Kalandiak
•  Dr. Patrick Owens
•  Dr. Lee Kaplan

The knee is the largest joint in the body, and one of the most easily injured. It contains ligaments which control motion and brace the joint against abnormal types of motion, and cartilage which serves as cushioning to absorb shock during motion. Most knee ligament and cartilage injuries can be corrected with arthroscopic surgery.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament: When you twist or fall on your knee, the stabilizing ligament connecting the thighbone to the shinbone can tear. Like a braided rope, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) unravels when torn and will not heal on its own. Fortunately, minimally invasive arthroscopic reconstructive surgery can restore full function after an ACL tear.

Torn Cartilage: When people talk about torn knee cartilage, they are usually referring to a torn meniscus (rubbery cartilage which acts like a shock absorber). Treatment may include icing, rest, pain relievers and physical therapy. Arthroscopic surgery may be needed to correct the condition and restore normal joint movement.

Articular Cartilage: Injury to the articular cartilage of the knee joint. This has many treatment options, including transplant.

Meniscal Transplant: Allograft/cadaver transplantation in which new meniscus is placed in your knee.

SPECIALISTS:
•  Dr. Lee Kaplan

According to the Centers for Disease Control, several hundred thousand people nationwide suffer sports-related concussions each year. Many are athletes but concussions can also result from car accidents, falls and other trauma.

Concussion is a disturbance of brain function that occurs after either a blow to the head or as a result of the violent shaking of the head. Concussions can be difficult to assess, but common signs and symptoms include headache; confusion; dizziness; disruption of balance; sensitivity to light and noise; visual disturbances, and short term problems with memory and concentration.

UHealth Sports Medicine's Concussion Program, established in 1995, offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to the evaluation and management of concussions, and returning athletes to activity. The Program treats many patients from throughout the community, including student athletes from area high schools, colleges, and universities.

SPECIALIST:
•  Dr. Gillian Hotz