Shoulder Stabilization Surgeon in Houston, Lake Jackson, Kingwood, TX
Frequent dislocations of the shoulder joint can lead to chronic shoulder instability. Surgery to stabilize the shoulder may be recommended when conservative treatment options fail. All American Orthopedic provides diagnosis and individualized nonoperative and operative treatments for the shoulder including shoulder stabilization in Houston, Lake Jackson, Kingwood, TX. All American Orthopedic also provides the highest level of care during and after surgery. Contact All American Orthopedic’s office for an appointment today!
Recurring shoulder dislocations and instability can make everyday activities and sports both painful and unpredictable. At All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute, our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons provide advanced shoulder stabilization surgery using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques whenever appropriate. Serving Houston, Clear Lake, Lake Jackson, and Kingwood, we offer personalized treatment plans designed to restore shoulder stability, relieve pain, and help you safely return to an active lifestyle.
What is Shoulder Instability?
Shoulder instability is a chronic condition that causes frequent dislocation of the shoulder joint. A dislocation occurs when the end of the humerus (the ball portion) partially or completely dislocates from the glenoid (the socket portion) of the shoulder. A partial dislocation is referred to as a subluxation while a complete separation is referred to as a dislocation. The repeated dislocation of the humerus out of its socket is called chronic shoulder instability. A tear in the labrum or rotator cuff and a ligament tear in the front of the shoulder (a Bankart lesion) may lead to repeated shoulder dislocations.
What are the Indications for Shoulder Stabilization?
When conservative treatment options such as medications, rest and ice application fail to relieve shoulder instability, your surgeon may recommend shoulder stabilization surgery.
What is the Procedure for Shoulder Stabilization?
Shoulder stabilization surgery is performed to improve stability and function to the shoulder joint and prevent recurrent dislocations. It can be performed arthroscopically, depending on your particular condition, with much smaller incisions. Arthroscopic stabilization is a surgical procedure to treat chronic instability of the shoulder joint.
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery and is performed through two tiny incisions (portals), about half-inch in length, made around the joint area. Through one of the incisions, an arthroscope (small fiber-optic viewing instrument) is passed. A television camera attached to the arthroscope displays the images of the inside of the joint on the television monitor, which allows your surgeon to view the cartilage, ligaments and the rotator cuff while performing the procedure. A sterile saline solution is pumped into the joint, which expands it and provides a clearer view. Bone spurs, defects or tissue tears will be identified.
Your surgeon makes use of tiny surgical instruments that are passed through the other incisions to treat the condition. Any tear in the rotator cuff will be sutured or stapled. The sutures will be held in place with the help of a small anchor that is drilled into the upper part of the humerus. Further, a thermal shrinkage device may be used in order to make the ligaments tight and prevent instability.
What Does Postoperative Care for Shoulder Stabilization Involve?
Following the procedure, your surgeon may advise the use of a continuous passive motion machine to prevent stiffness and improve the range of motion of the shoulder joint. Pain medications will be prescribed to keep you comfortable. A shoulder sling can be worn for 4-6 weeks to immobilize and facilitate healing. A postoperative rehabilitation program including strengthening exercises will be advised for 6-9 months. You will be able to participate in sports in about 18 to 36 weeks after the surgery.
What are the Advantages of Shoulder Stabilization?
The major benefits of arthroscopic stabilization as compared to the open repair are that it gives a chance to identify and treat coexisting diseases, lesser pain and complications, combined with a shorter hospital stay.
What are the Risks and Complications of Shoulder Stabilization?
As with any surgical procedure, there may be certain risks and complications involved and include infection of the surgical wound, post-operative stiffness, risk of arthritis, muscle weakness and injury to the nerves and blood vessels.
If you would like additional information on the treatment of shoulder conditions or would like to learn more about shoulder stabilization surgery, please contact All American Orthopedic, serving the communities of Houston, Lake Jackson, Kingwood, TX.
Why Choose All American Orthopedic Surgeons for Shoulder Stabilization in Houston, Lake Jackson & Kingwood?
Chronic shoulder instability can interfere with work, sports, and everyday activities by causing repeated dislocations, pain, and a feeling that your shoulder may "give out." At All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute, our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating shoulder instability with comprehensive evaluations and individualized treatment plans. Whether your instability is caused by a traumatic injury, sports participation, or repetitive overhead motion, we are committed to restoring shoulder function and preventing recurrent dislocations.
Patients choose our orthopedic team because we offer:
- Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons with expertise in shoulder and sports medicine
- Comprehensive evaluations using advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques
- Personalized treatment plans based on the severity of shoulder instability
- Advanced arthroscopic shoulder stabilization using minimally invasive techniques whenever appropriate
- Non-surgical treatment options, including physical therapy and activity modification when appropriate
- Comprehensive rehabilitation programs to restore strength, flexibility, and shoulder function
- Convenient office locations in Houston (Clear Lake), Lake Jackson, and Kingwood
Our goal is to restore shoulder stability, reduce pain, improve function, and help you confidently return to work, sports, and everyday activities.
Shoulder Stabilization FAQs
What is shoulder instability?
Shoulder instability occurs when the ball of the upper arm bone repeatedly slips partially or completely out of the shoulder socket. This may cause recurring dislocations, subluxations (partial dislocations), pain, weakness, or the sensation that the shoulder is loose or unstable.
When is shoulder stabilization surgery recommended?
Surgery may be recommended if you experience repeated shoulder dislocations, persistent instability, or ongoing pain despite conservative treatment such as physical therapy, rest, and activity modification. Your orthopedic surgeon will determine the best treatment based on your condition and activity level.
Is shoulder stabilization performed arthroscopically?
Yes. Many shoulder stabilization procedures can be performed arthroscopically using small incisions and specialized instruments. This minimally invasive approach allows the surgeon to repair damaged ligaments and other supporting structures while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues whenever appropriate.
What conditions can be treated with shoulder stabilization surgery?
Shoulder stabilization surgery may be recommended for recurrent shoulder dislocations, chronic shoulder instability, Bankart lesions, labral tears, and certain ligament injuries that contribute to an unstable shoulder joint.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies depending on the extent of the injury and the procedure performed. Most patients wear a sling for several weeks before beginning physical therapy. Returning to sports or strenuous activities typically requires several months of rehabilitation.
Will I need physical therapy after surgery?
Yes. Physical therapy is a critical part of recovery following shoulder stabilization surgery. Rehabilitation helps restore range of motion, strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve stability, and safely prepare you to return to your normal activities.
Can shoulder instability be treated without surgery?
Some patients improve with non-surgical treatment, including physical therapy, strengthening exercises, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, surgery may be the most effective option for patients with recurrent dislocations or significant structural damage.
Restore Shoulder Stability with Expert Orthopedic Care
If recurring shoulder dislocations or chronic instability are preventing you from living an active life, the experienced team at All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute is here to help. We provide comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment, and advanced shoulder stabilization procedures designed to relieve pain, restore joint stability, and improve long-term shoulder function.
With convenient locations in Houston (Clear Lake), Lake Jackson, and Kingwood, expert orthopedic care is always close to home. Contact All American Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute today to schedule your consultation and learn more about your treatment options for shoulder instability.
