The shoulder joint is the most mobile joint in the human body. It allows us to lift, rotate, reach, and perform a wide range of daily and athletic activities. However, this remarkable flexibility also makes the shoulder vulnerable to injury, degeneration, and overuse. Shoulder pain can interfere with simple tasks such as reaching overhead, carrying groceries, playing sport, or even sleeping comfortably.
When non-surgical treatments such as rest, physiotherapy, medication, or injections are no longer effective, shoulder surgery may provide lasting relief. Advances in modern orthopaedic techniques—ranging from minimally invasive arthroscopy to complex shoulder replacement surgery—are designed to reduce pain, restore function, and help patients return to an active lifestyle.
At our East Melbourne orthopaedic practice, we provide comprehensive care for shoulder conditions. Our approach combines specialist surgical expertise with personalised rehabilitation, ensuring every patient receives treatment tailored to their goals, lifestyle, and recovery needs.
Conditions treated with Shoulder surgery
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Key hole surgery uses a camera called an arthroscope to repair the tissues inside your shoulder joint.
Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear is a common tear of the shoulder that causes pain and difficulty moving the arm
Conditions Treated with Shoulder Surgery
We manage a wide range of shoulder problems. Many of these conditions begin with non-operative treatments, but surgery may be required if symptoms persist or function is significantly affected.
- Rotator Cuff Tear – Tears of the rotator cuff tendons are among the most common shoulder injuries. They can cause weakness, pain when lifting the arm, and disturbed sleep. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery restores tendon function and relieves pain.
- Shoulder Impingement and Bursitis – Irritation of the tendons and bursa in the shoulder leads to pain when reaching overhead. Surgery may involve arthroscopic decompression to create more space for the tendons.
- AC Joint Arthritis – Arthritis of the acromioclavicular joint at the top of the shoulder can cause pain with lifting or cross-body movements. Arthroscopic removal of the affected joint surface often provides relief.
- Shoulder Arthritis – Degeneration of the glenohumeral joint may require shoulder replacement surgery when pain and stiffness become severe.
- Biceps Tendonitis – Inflammation or tearing of the biceps tendon causes pain at the front of the shoulder. Surgery may involve tendon repair or release.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) – A condition causing stiffness and restricted motion. In resistant cases, arthroscopic capsular release can restore mobility.
- AC Joint Dislocation – Dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint, often caused by trauma, may need surgical stabilisation.
- Shoulder Dislocation – Recurrent instability following dislocation can be treated with arthroscopic stabilisation procedures.
- Shoulder Replacement – Severe arthritis or complex fractures may be best managed with joint replacement. Options include total shoulder replacement, partial replacement, or reverse shoulder replacement.
Types of Shoulder Surgery
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure using a small camera and instruments inserted through keyhole incisions. It is commonly used to treat rotator cuff tears, impingement, labral tears, and instability. Arthroscopy typically results in less pain, smaller scars, and quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
Rotator Cuff Repair
Rotator cuff repair can be performed arthroscopically or through a mini-open technique. Sutures and anchors reattach torn tendons to the bone, restoring strength and function. Recovery involves a period of sling protection followed by physiotherapy.
Shoulder Stabilisation Surgery
For patients with recurrent dislocations or instability, stabilisation surgery repairs the torn labrum and tightens stretched ligaments. Arthroscopic techniques are highly successful in restoring shoulder stability.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder replacement is recommended when arthritis or severe damage limits movement and causes persistent pain.
Options include:
- Total shoulder replacement – both ball and socket surfaces replaced.
- Reverse shoulder replacement – used when the rotator cuff is irreparably damaged, relying on different muscles to move the joint.
Benefits of Modern Shoulder Surgery
- Relief from persistent pain
- Restored mobility and function
- Faster recovery with minimally invasive techniques
- Improved strength for daily tasks and sport
- Enhanced quality of life and independence
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
- Assessment: Every patient undergoes a thorough consultation, imaging studies, and discussion of non-operative and operative options.
- Surgery: Procedures are tailored to the patient’s condition. Many are performed using arthroscopy through small incisions.
- Recovery: Patients may return home the same day or after a short stay, depending on the procedure.
- Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy is essential to restore motion, strength, and function.
- Return to Activity: Most patients resume normal activities within weeks, with full recovery ranging from 3–6 months depending on the type of surgery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Shoulder Surgery Recovery Time
Recovery time varies by procedure:
- Arthroscopic surgery — Patients often return to light activities within a few weeks.
- Rotator cuff repair — Requires sling protection for 4–6 weeks and gradual strengthening over 3–6 months.
- Shoulder replacement — Initial recovery takes several weeks, with full improvement over 6–12 months.
Individual progress depends on age, health, and adherence to physiotherapy. Our team works closely with physiotherapists to support a safe, effective recovery tailored to each patient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is shoulder surgery painful?
Mild to moderate discomfort is expected in the early days, but modern pain management techniques and minimally invasive surgery reduce pain significantly.
How long does recovery take after shoulder surgery?
Recovery varies by procedure. Arthroscopy may take 6–8 weeks, while rotator cuff repair or replacement may require 3–6 months for full recovery.
Can shoulder problems heal without surgery?
Many conditions improve with physiotherapy, medication, and injections. Surgery is only recommended when symptoms persist despite non-operative treatment.
What are the risks of shoulder surgery?
All surgery carries some risk, including infection, stiffness, nerve injury, or incomplete relief of symptoms. These risks are low, and our team takes every precaution to ensure safety.
When should I see a shoulder surgeon?
If you experience persistent pain, weakness, or loss of motion that interferes with daily life, a specialist assessment can help determine whether surgery is the best option.
Book a Consultation
If you are suffering from ongoing shoulder pain or injury, expert assessment can make all the difference. Our East Melbourne orthopaedic team provides advanced shoulder surgery, from arthroscopy to joint replacement, with a focus on recovery, mobility, and quality of life.
📞 Call us today or book an appointment to discuss your treatment options and take the first step towards regaining shoulder strength and comfort.
