Shoulder Conditions

Impingement syndrome and bursitis occur when the rotator cuff tendons and bursa (a fluid-filled sac) become compressed and inflamed, typically due to repetitive overhead motions or aging. This compression can lead to pain, tenderness, and limited range of motion, especially when lifting the arm. Impingement is common among athletes and those who perform repetitive shoulder movements, while bursitis often accompanies it, causing additional swelling and discomfort.

Dr. Falconer diagnoses these conditions through a clinical exam and imaging and recommends a personalised treatment plan that may include rest, physical therapy, injections, or if needed, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery. With targeted treatment, most patients experience significant pain relief and regain full mobility.

Rotator cuff tears occur when one or more of the tendons in the shoulder’s rotator cuff become torn, either from a sudden injury or gradual wear over time. Symptoms include shoulder weakness, pain, and difficulty with overhead activities, making everyday tasks challenging. Rotator cuff tears range from partial to complete tears, and severe cases may result in significant disability.

Dr. Falconer assesses each case to determine the best course of action, which can include physical therapy, injections, or if necessary, surgical repair. With his expertise in rotator cuff repair, Dr. Falconer uses advanced techniques, including arthroscopy, to help patients restore shoulder strength and mobility, returning them to an active lifestyle.

Shoulder instability and dislocation occur when the shoulder joint becomes loose or slips out of its socket, often due to traumatic injury or repetitive strain. This instability can lead to frequent dislocations, pain, and a feeling of the shoulder "giving way." Instability is common in young athletes, especially those in contact or overhead sports.

Dr. Falconer specialises in diagnosing and treating shoulder instability, offering both conservative approaches and arthroscopic stabilisation surgery. For patients with recurring dislocations or chronic instability, surgical repair of the labrum and ligaments can restore stability, reduce pain, and prevent further injuries.

Shoulder arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the shoulder joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Common types include osteoarthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy and rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause grinding or clicking sensations during movement. As arthritis progresses, it can make daily tasks difficult and impact quality of life.

Dr. Falconer provides comprehensive care for shoulder arthritis, including conservative options like physical therapy, injections, and lifestyle modifications. For advanced cases, he offers shoulder replacement surgery, which can provide significant pain relief and restore function.

Calcific tendinitis is a painful condition where calcium deposits form within the rotator cuff tendons, causing severe inflammation and limited mobility. The exact cause is unknown, but it’s most commonly seen in middle-aged adults. Symptoms often flare suddenly, with intense pain that can disrupt sleep and daily activities.

Dr. Falconer uses a variety of treatments for calcific tendinitis, including non-surgical options like medications, physical therapy, and ultrasound-guided needle aspiration. For persistent cases, he may perform arthroscopic surgery to remove calcium deposits and relieve symptoms effectively.

Clavicle fractures, or collarbone breaks, are common injuries often resulting from falls or direct impacts. These fractures can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the shoulder. While many clavicle fractures heal on their own with immobilisation, some require surgery, especially if the bones are displaced.

Dr. Falconer treats clavicle fractures with personalised care, deciding between non-surgical and surgical options based on the severity of the injury. When surgery is needed, he uses plates and screws to realign and stabilise the bone, ensuring optimal healing and restoring shoulder function.

An AC joint dislocation, or shoulder separation, happens when the ligaments connecting the collarbone to the shoulder blade are torn, often due to a fall or sports injury. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and a visible bump at the top of the shoulder. Mild cases may heal with rest and rehabilitation, while severe cases may require surgical stabilisation.

Dr. Falconer evaluates each case of AC joint dislocation to determine the best treatment approach, offering both non-surgical options and surgical reconstruction to restore stability and alignment. With treatment, most patients can expect a full return to activity without pain or functional limitations.

AC joint arthritis is a form of osteoarthritis that affects the acromioclavicular (AC) joint at the top of the shoulder, where the collarbone meets the shoulder blade. This condition causes pain, stiffness, and tenderness, especially when lifting or reaching across the body. It commonly develops due to aging, overuse, or previous injuries to the joint.

Dr. Falconer offers various treatment options for AC joint arthritis, including medications, physical therapy, and injections to reduce pain. In cases where conservative measures don’t relieve symptoms, he may recommend minimally invasive AC joint resection to remove the damaged portion of the joint and restore comfort.

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder capsule thickens and tightens, restricting movement and causing pain. The condition typically progresses in stages, from initial pain and stiffness to a "frozen" phase, and finally, gradual recovery. Frozen shoulder can take months to years to resolve, impacting daily activities and sleep.

Dr. Falconer offers a range of treatments to help reduce pain and improve mobility, including physical therapy, injections, and in resistant cases, minimally invasive procedures to release the tightened capsule. With the right care, most patients experience gradual improvement and can regain full shoulder function.

Shoulder tendinitis is inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder, usually due to overuse or repetitive strain. This condition commonly affects the rotator cuff tendons, causing pain and weakness, especially during overhead activities. Left untreated, tendinitis can worsen, making it difficult to lift or move the arm comfortably.

Dr. Falconer provides targeted treatments for shoulder tendinitis, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modification. In more severe cases, he may perform a minimally invasive procedure to relieve the inflamed tendons, helping patients return to their usual activities pain-free.

Rotator cuff arthropathy is a condition where arthritis develops in the shoulder joint due to chronic rotator cuff tears, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited movement. When a rotator cuff tear is left untreated for a long period, it can cause wear and tear on the shoulder joint, leading to a breakdown of the cartilage and the development of arthritis. This can result in significant pain, especially when lifting or reaching overhead, and can severely affect daily activities.

Dr. Falconer treats rotator cuff arthropathy through a combination of non-surgical and surgical options, depending on the severity of the condition. For patients with significant joint damage and persistent symptoms, he may recommend reverse shoulder replacement, which involves changing the joint's anatomy to allow the deltoid muscle to take over movement, bypassing the damaged rotator cuff. This procedure can provide relief from pain, restore shoulder function, and improve quality of life. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are key parts of recovery, helping patients regain strength and mobility.