Shoulder Surgeons in Missoula, Montana
Specialties
Comprehensive Shoulder Care at Northern Rockies Orthopaedics
Shoulder pain can make simple tasks like reaching, lifting, or getting dressed feel frustrating and uncomfortable. At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic in Missoula, Montana, our experienced shoulder surgeons provide expert care for both adult and pediatric patients.
Whether you are dealing with a rotator cuff tear, labral tear, shoulder fracture, or osteoarthritis, our shoulder specialists are here to help. We work closely with every patient to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs and recovery goals.
Our team offers a full range of services, including arthroscopic shoulder surgery, reverse total shoulder replacement, physical therapy, and other nonsurgical treatments to reduce pain, restore mobility, and support long-term healing.
Call (406) 728-6101 or contact us online to schedule an appointment today.
Common Shoulder Conditions We Treat in Missoula, Montana
The shoulder team at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic treats a wide range of shoulder conditions in Missoula, MT that affect people of all ages. Whether the problem started from a sports injury, repetitive motion, arthritis, or a fall, our Missoula shoulder specialists use the latest tools in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine to help you move more freely and with less pain.
Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help lift and rotate your arm. A tear can occur suddenly due to trauma or develop gradually over time. Symptoms often include shoulder weakness, difficulty lifting your arm, and persistent shoulder pain, especially at night. Our shoulder doctors offer both nonsurgical treatments, such as physical therapy, and surgical procedures like arthroscopic surgery to repair the tear and restore strength.
Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement syndrome occurs when the tendons in your shoulder become pinched between the bones. This can cause swelling, pain when reaching overhead, and limited range of motion. Left untreated, it may lead to a rotator cuff tear. Our orthopedic specialists in Missoula, Montana, provide customized care, utilizing a combination of nonsurgical options and, when necessary, shoulder surgery to alleviate pressure and enhance mobility.
Shoulder Instability and Dislocations
If your shoulder joint slips out of place or feels unstable, you may be experiencing shoulder instability or frequent dislocations. These shoulder injuries are common in young athletes and those with loose joints. Treatment might involve physical therapy to strengthen the muscles or surgical procedures to tighten the joint and prevent future dislocations.
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder causes stiffness and pain that worsens over time, often making it difficult to move your arm at all. This condition typically develops gradually and can persist for months or even years without proper care. Our shoulder specialists offer personalized treatment plans that include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory options, and, in some cases, shoulder surgery to release the tight joint capsule and restore function.
Arthritis of the Shoulder
Osteoarthritis in the shoulder can wear down the protective cartilage, leading to stiffness, grinding sensations, and daily discomfort. As the joint continues to deteriorate, simple tasks like brushing your hair or reaching into a cabinet may become increasingly painful. Treatment may include nonsurgical options, shoulder replacement surgery, or even reverse total shoulder replacement, depending on your age, activity level, and the extent of joint damage. Our board-certified shoulder surgeons help you explore your options to reduce pain and improve mobility.
SLAP Tears and Labral Injuries
A SLAP tear is an injury to the top part of the labrum, the cartilage ring that helps keep your shoulder socket stable. This type of injury can cause popping, locking, or aching deep within the joint and is common in individuals who frequently throw or lift objects overhead. We treat labral tears using both nonsurgical treatments and arthroscopic surgery to repair the damaged tissue and improve stability. Our shoulder surgeons tailor each treatment plan to match your needs and activity level.
Non-Surgical Shoulder Treatments for Shoulder Pain
At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic, we understand that shoulder pain doesn’t always require surgery. Many shoulder conditions respond well to conservative care that focuses on healing, improving strength, and reducing discomfort. Our expert shoulder specialists work closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits their lifestyle, activity level, and recovery goals.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a key role in treating shoulder injuries. Targeted exercises help strengthen the muscles around the joint, improve flexibility, and support long-term joint health. Therapy also reduces inflammation, increases range of motion, and improves function for conditions like rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, and shoulder impingement. Our shoulder doctors work closely with our team of physical therapists to help patients return to their daily lives with reduced pain and improved mobility.
Medications and Injections
Anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroid injections can provide short-term relief for persistent shoulder pain. These options are often used alongside physical therapy to help patients stay active during recovery. Injections may help reduce swelling in cases of arthritis, shoulder impingement, or tendon irritation. Our shoulder specialists will recommend the right timing and dosage to support your overall treatment plan.
Advanced Shoulder Surgery Options in Missoula, Montana
When nonsurgical treatments are no longer enough to manage shoulder pain or restore function, our board-certified shoulder surgeons offer advanced surgical procedures tailored to each patient’s needs. At Northern Rockies Orthopaedic in Missoula, we use the latest techniques in orthopedic surgery to treat damaged joints, repair soft tissue, and help you recover faster with better outcomes. From minimally invasive options to full shoulder replacement surgery, our goal is to help you regain comfort, confidence, and mobility so you can get back to living life on your terms.
Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery uses a tiny camera and small tools inserted through smaller incisions to repair shoulder injuries with less trauma to surrounding tissue. This approach is commonly used for rotator cuff repairs, labral tears, and shoulder impingement. It typically allows patients to return home the same day and start physical therapy shortly after. With shorter recovery times and less scarring, arthroscopy is a preferred option for many active patients seeking a quicker return to normal movement.
Total and Reverse Shoulder Replacement Surgery
When joint damage from arthritis, trauma, or long-term wear severely limits function, shoulder replacement surgery may be the best solution. A total shoulder replacement restores the normal ball-and-socket structure of the joint. In contrast, a reverse total shoulder replacement is often recommended for patients with a torn rotator cuff or weakened shoulder muscles. Both procedures can reduce pain, increase range of motion, and help patients perform daily tasks with greater ease. Our specially trained shoulder surgeons perform these procedures using proven methods that support better outcomes and long-term relief.
Shoulder Stabilization Surgery
For patients with shoulder instability or recurring dislocations, shoulder stabilization surgery helps secure the joint by tightening ligaments and repairing damaged tissues. Whether the issue is from sports, accidents, or natural joint looseness, our orthopaedic surgeons use both arthroscopic and open techniques depending on the severity of the condition. Stabilizing the joint can reduce the risk of future injuries and improve overall strength and control during movement.
Revision Shoulder Surgery
If a previous shoulder surgery didn’t provide lasting relief or has led to new complications, revision shoulder surgery may be necessary. These procedures address issues such as failed implants, lingering instability, or joint stiffness. Our orthopedic specialists thoroughly evaluate each case to determine the cause of the problem and develop a customized plan for correction. Using advanced diagnostics and surgical planning, we help patients regain trust in their joints and experience less pain moving forward.
What to Expect During Your Visit to Northern Rockies Orthopaedic
Every patient who visits Northern Rockies Orthopaedic receives focused, one-on-one care designed to help them feel heard, understood, and supported. Whether you’re experiencing sudden shoulder pain or dealing with persistent shoulder pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments, we take the time to listen and fully assess the problem. From the first appointment to recovery, our expert shoulder specialists are here to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your care.
Comprehensive Evaluation with an Experienced Shoulder Doctor
Your visit begins with a comprehensive evaluation by a shoulder specialist who is trained to identify a wide range of shoulder conditions. This includes a discussion of your symptoms, a review of your medical history, and a physical examination to assess the strength, flexibility, and range of motion of your joints. Imaging techniques such as X-rays or MRIs may also be ordered to examine bones, tendons, and soft tissues closely. This thorough process helps us identify the source of your pain and determine the most suitable treatment options for you.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Once we understand your condition, we’ll work together to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your health goals and lifestyle. Depending on your needs, this may include physical therapy, medications, activity modification, or surgical procedures such as arthroscopic surgery or shoulder replacement. We focus on clear communication, helping you understand your options so you feel confident in the next steps.
Orthopaedic Surgery and Recovery
If surgery is the right option, our shoulder surgeons will explain the procedure, recovery process, and what to expect in detail. Our team uses the latest techniques to reduce trauma to surrounding tissue, often resulting in smaller incisions, less pain, and shorter recovery times.
After surgery, we guide patients through each phase of healing, including rehab with physical therapy and regular follow-ups. Whether it’s a total shoulder replacement, a reverse shoulder procedure, or a rotator cuff repair, our goal is to help you safely return to daily life with improved strength and mobility.
Why Choose the Shoulder Specialists at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic?
Patients choose the shoulder specialists at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic because we offer a combination of experience, advanced training, and a patient-first approach. Our board-certified orthopaedic surgeons specialize in treating a wide range of shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, shoulder fractures, and complex shoulder replacement surgeries. We utilize the latest techniques in orthopedic surgery, including arthroscopic procedures and reverse total shoulder replacements, to help patients experience reduced pain, improved mobility, and a faster recovery.
With personalized care plans, in-depth evaluations, and a dedicated support team, we focus on delivering better outcomes for every patient, from the initial consultation through recovery. Whether you’re seeking relief from persistent shoulder pain or exploring nonsurgical treatments, we’re here to help you return to the activities you enjoy.
Contact Northern Rockies Orthopaedic to Schedule a Consultation with the Missoula, Montana, Shoulder Team Today
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, limited mobility, or recovering from a recent injury, don’t wait to receive the care you need. The shoulder team at Northern Rockies Orthopaedic in Missoula, Montana, is ready to help you find lasting relief.
Whether you’re interested in nonsurgical options, a second opinion, or are ready to move forward with shoulder replacement surgery, our shoulder surgeons are here to help. Call us today at (406) 728-6101 or use our online contact form to schedule your consultation.
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