If you are suffering from shoulder pain that has not been relieved by a cortisone shot, you may be considering what your next step should be. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the potential options available when a cortisone shot doesn’t relieve your shoulder pain, such as shoulder surgery or orthopedic surgery. Whether you are experiencing shoulder pain due to an injury or a medical condition, we’ll explore how you can find relief. Read on to learn more about the various next steps to take when a cortisone shot doesn’t alleviate your shoulder pain.  At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Our board certified surgeons specialize shoulder surgery in the Las Vegas area.

Rest, Ice, and Heat

When a cortisone shot doesn’t relieve shoulder pain, the next step is to focus on non-invasive treatment options like rest, ice, and heat. Resting the affected shoulder allows it to heal and reduce inflammation. Applying ice can help reduce pain and swelling, while heat can promote blood flow and speed up the healing process. 

If these methods don’t provide relief, it may be time to seek out a shoulder specialist. A specialist can evaluate the shoulder and recommend a personalized treatment plan based on the severity and underlying cause of the pain. 

In some cases, non-invasive treatments may not be enough to relieve shoulder pain. In these instances, arthroscopic surgery may be necessary. During this minimally invasive surgery, a small camera is inserted into the shoulder joint to assess and repair any damage. Recovery time for arthroscopic surgery is typically shorter than traditional open surgery. 

It’s important to keep in mind that each individual case is unique and requires a personalized treatment plan. Consulting with a shoulder specialist can help determine the best course of action to alleviate shoulder pain.

Physical Therapy

If a cortisone shot doesn’t alleviate your shoulder pain, the next step is physical therapy. A physical therapist will work with you to develop an exercise regimen that can help improve shoulder strength and flexibility. This approach can help reduce pain and improve function.

It’s essential to seek out a shoulder specialist when undergoing physical therapy. A specialist can provide individualized treatment and customize the exercises to fit your specific needs. The therapist will work with you to develop a comprehensive rehabilitation program, which may include stretches, resistance exercises, and range-of-motion exercises.

It’s crucial to attend all of your physical therapy sessions to ensure that you get the maximum benefit from treatment. Your therapist will provide guidance on how to perform exercises correctly and monitor your progress. Your progress will dictate if further treatments, such as arthroscopic surgery, are required.

Physical therapy can be a helpful alternative to surgical procedures. However, in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. A shoulder specialist will be able to assess your condition and determine whether arthroscopic surgery is the right option.

Steroid Injections

If the initial cortisone shot didn’t work, your doctor may recommend trying steroid injections. Steroid injections use a different type of steroid than cortisone to reduce inflammation and pain. These injections are usually given directly into the joint or the surrounding tissue.

Similar to cortisone shots, steroid injections may provide temporary relief. However, they can also have potential side effects like joint damage, infection, and thinning of nearby bones and skin. This is why they are not typically used as a long-term solution for shoulder pain.

If your doctor does recommend a steroid injection, they will likely limit the number of injections you can receive. It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of steroid injections with your doctor to make an informed decision about whether they are the right treatment option for you. 

Ultimately, the goal is to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder so you can return to your normal activities. If steroid injections don’t work, there are still other options to consider. Next, we’ll discuss surgery as a potential treatment option for shoulder pain.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve shoulder pain that is not responding to other treatments. This may be the case if you have a tear in your rotator cuff or a bone spur that is causing irritation. Surgery may also be recommended if you have a frozen shoulder that is not improving with other treatments.

There are several types of shoulder surgery, depending on the underlying cause of your pain. Some surgeries involve repairing or removing damaged tissue, while others involve joint replacement or reconstruction. Your doctor will help you determine the best type of surgery for your specific needs.

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. You may also need to undergo physical therapy or other forms of rehabilitation to help you regain full use of your shoulder.

If you are considering surgery for your shoulder pain, be sure to talk with your doctor about all of the options available to you. It’s important to fully understand the risks and benefits of each option before making a decision. With the right treatment, you can relieve your shoulder pain and get back to enjoying your life.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

When it comes to shoulder pain, cortisone injections can be an effective way to reduce inflammation and pain. But how many cortisone injections should you get for your shoulder pain? This is a question that should be answered by your orthopedic surgeon. In this blog post, we will discuss the number of cortisone injections you may need for your shoulder pain, as well as the potential risks and benefits.  At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Our board certified surgeons specialize in treating the shoulder in the Las Vegas area.

How Often Can I Receive a Cortisone Injection?

Cortisone injections can be an effective treatment option for those suffering from shoulder pain. However, it’s important to know how often you can receive them.

Generally, it’s recommended that patients receive no more than three to four cortisone injections per year. This is due to the potential for negative side effects such as joint damage, weakened ligaments, and osteoporosis with repeated use.

It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate number of injections for your individual case. They will take into consideration factors such as the severity of your pain and any underlying conditions you may have.

If your pain persists or returns after the maximum number of injections, your healthcare provider may explore alternative treatment options. It’s important to remember that cortisone injections are not a permanent solution and should be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment such as physical therapy and lifestyle modifications.

How Much Does a Cortisone Injection Cost?

If you are considering getting a cortisone injection for your shoulder pain, you may be wondering about the cost. The cost of a cortisone injection can vary depending on a few different factors. 

First, the cost may vary depending on your location and the healthcare provider you choose. In general, cortisone injections can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 or more. This price may or may not include any associated fees, such as the cost of an office visit or follow-up appointments. 

Another factor that may impact the cost of a cortisone injection is whether or not you have insurance. Some insurance plans may cover the cost of a cortisone injection, while others may not. If you have insurance, be sure to check with your provider to see what your plan covers.

Lastly, the cost of a cortisone injection may also depend on how many injections you need. If you only need one injection, the cost may be lower than if you need multiple injections over a period of time. 

In summary, the cost of a cortisone injection can vary depending on your location, healthcare provider, insurance coverage, and the number of injections needed. Be sure to check with your provider to get an accurate estimate of the cost before moving forward with the procedure.

Are There Any Side Effects from a Cortisone Injection?

While cortisone injections can be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in the shoulder, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. 

One of the most common side effects is pain and swelling at the injection site. This is usually mild and goes away on its own within a few days. Other possible side effects include temporary increases in blood sugar levels, thinning of the skin and tissue around the injection site, and allergic reactions.

In rare cases, cortisone injections can cause more serious side effects such as nerve damage, infection, or even death. It’s important to discuss any concerns with your doctor and follow their instructions for post-injection care. 

It’s also important to note that while cortisone injections can provide temporary relief, they don’t treat the underlying cause of your shoulder pain. Your doctor may recommend additional treatments or physical therapy to address the root cause of your pain and prevent it from returning.

Overall, cortisone injections can be a useful tool in managing shoulder pain, but they should be used judiciously and with caution. Always talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of this treatment option before moving forward.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

If you have suffered a knee injury, it is important to know the difference between an ACL tear and an MCL tear. ACL stands for anterior cruciate ligament and MCL stands for medial collateral ligament. Both of these ligaments are located in the knee and they serve different purposes, so it is important to understand the difference between an ACL tear and an MCL tear in order to properly treat the injury. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between an ACL tear and an MCL tear and provide tips on how to tell the difference. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Our board certified surgeons specialize in ACL and MCL surgery in the Las Vegas area.

Symptoms

A torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is often characterized by a sharp pain that occurs suddenly in the knee area, often following a sudden twist or pivot of the knee. You may also experience swelling and joint instability, as well as difficulty bearing weight on the affected knee. An MCL (medial collateral ligament) tear, on the other hand, is typically accompanied by pain along the inner side of the knee joint, as well as swelling, tenderness and possibly bruising. Depending on the severity of the tear, you may also experience instability in the knee joint.

It’s important to note that not all knee injuries require ACL or MCL surgery. If you suspect you have torn one of your knee ligaments, it’s best to visit an orthopedic surgeon who can diagnose and treat your injury accordingly. The surgeon will likely recommend rest, icing, compression and elevation to reduce inflammation and pain. For more severe injuries, he or she may suggest ACL or MCL surgery in order to repair or reconstruct the torn ligament.

Causes

ACL tears can be caused by a variety of activities. The most common cause is when a person makes a sudden change in direction while running or jumping. This sudden shift can put too much stress on the ACL and cause it to tear. In some cases, ACL tears may be caused by a direct blow to the knee, such as during a tackle in sports.

MCL tears are usually caused by a direct blow to the outside of the knee. This often occurs during contact sports, such as football, soccer, or skiing. Injuries to other ligaments in the knee can also lead to MCL tears. 

In both cases, surgery is typically required to repair the injury. An orthopedic surgeon will examine the knee and determine the extent of the injury. Afterward, they will determine if ACL surgery or MCL surgery is needed to repair the tear. Depending on the severity of the tear, a full or partial reconstruction of the ligament may be necessary. In some cases, a complete replacement of the ligament may be needed.

Recovery

Recovery from an ACL tear requires surgery, which is typically performed by an orthopedic surgeon. The goal of the ACL surgery is to reconstruct the ligament using a tendon graft taken from another part of the body or a donor. After the surgery, it is important to do physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and rebuild range of motion. Depending on the severity of the injury, recovery time for ACL surgery can range from three months to one year.

For a torn MCL, recovery can take up to eight weeks depending on the severity of the tear. The primary treatment for a torn MCL is rest and physical therapy. During the recovery process, a brace may be used to limit the movement of the knee and reduce swelling. Physical therapy may involve exercises to help strengthen the leg muscles and restore range of motion. If the injury is severe enough, surgery may be required to repair the damaged ligament.

Prevention

There are several ways to reduce your risk of an ACL or MCL tear. Strengthening the muscles around the knee, especially the quadriceps and hamstrings, can help support the ligaments and protect them from injury. Additionally, it is important to warm up properly before physical activities and avoid any sudden, awkward movements while playing sports. Wearing appropriate protective gear, such as knee pads and braces, can also help reduce your risk of ACL and MCL tears. Lastly, it is essential to stay well hydrated and rest adequately between workouts to ensure proper recovery. Taking all of these precautions can help keep you safe and prevent ACL and MCL tears.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Greater Trochanteric Bursitis (GTB) is a common condition that affects the hip and causes pain on the outer side of the hip. The condition is caused by inflammation of the bursa on the greater trochanter, which is a bony protrusion on the femur bone. GTB can be very painful and limit a person’s mobility. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of greater trochanteric bursitis to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

What is Greater Trochanteric Bursitis?

Greater Trochanteric Bursitis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the bursa located on the outer side of the hip. The bursa is a small sac filled with fluid that helps to reduce friction between the bone, tendons, and muscles. When this bursa becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort.

GTB is a common condition that affects people of all ages, but it is more prevalent in women than men. The condition can also be associated with other medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and diabetes.

Causes

There are several causes of GTB, including overuse of the hip joint, injury to the hip, and medical conditions that cause inflammation. Overuse of the hip joint can be caused by activities such as running, cycling, or standing for long periods. Injury to the hip can be caused by falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.

Medical conditions that cause inflammation can also contribute to GTB. These conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and diabetes. In some cases, GTB can also be caused by infection or tumors.

Symptoms

The symptoms of GTB can vary, but the most common symptom is pain on the outer side of the hip. The pain may be sharp or dull and can be worsened by activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs. Other symptoms may include:

• Stiffness in the hip joint
• Swelling on the outer side of the hip
• Tenderness when pressure is applied to the hip
• Difficulty sleeping on the affected side

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see an orthopedic surgeon for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

There are several treatment options available for GTB, including non-surgical and surgical options. Non-surgical treatment options include:

Rest and Activity Modification

Resting the hip joint and avoiding activities that worsen the pain can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Modifying activities can also help to reduce stress on the hip joint and prevent further injury.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint and improve flexibility. This can help to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Pain Medication

Over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. However, they are not a long-term solution and should be used sparingly.

Surgery

If non-surgical treatment options do not provide relief, orthopedic surgery may be necessary. The type of surgery will depend on the severity of the condition and may include:

• Bursectomy – removal of the bursa
• Tendon release – release of the tendons around the hip joint
• Hip Replacement – replacement of the hip joint

Contact Us

Greater Trochanteric Bursitis can be a painful and debilitating condition that can limit a person’s mobility. However, there are several treatment options available that can help to reduce pain and improve mobility. If you are experiencing symptoms of GTB, it is important to see an orthopedic surgeon for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With the right treatment, you can get back to your daily activities and enjoy life without pain. Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of greater trochanteric bursitis to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Greater trochanteric bursitis is a condition that affects the bursa sacs, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints, tendons, and muscles. The greater trochanteric bursa is located in the hip, near the top of the femur bone. When this bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can lead to greater trochanteric bursitis. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of greater trochanteric bursitis to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Causes of Greater Trochanteric Bursitis

There are several causes of greater trochanteric bursitis. One of the most common causes is repetitive stress on the hip joint. This can occur in athletes who participate in activities that require repetitive hip movements, such as running or cycling. Another cause of greater trochanteric bursitis is trauma to the hip, such as a fall or a direct blow to the hip.

Other factors that can contribute to the development of greater trochanteric bursitis include:

• Poor posture
• Tight hip muscles
• Bone spurs
• Arthritis
• Infection

Symptoms of Greater Trochanteric Bursitis

The symptoms of greater trochanteric bursitis can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:

• Pain on the outside of the hip
• Pain that increases when lying on the affected side
• Pain that radiates down the thigh
• Stiffness in the hip joint
• Swelling over the hip joint
• Tenderness when pressing on the hip joint

If left untreated, greater trochanteric bursitis can lead to chronic pain and discomfort, which can impact a person’s ability to perform daily activities.

Treatment Options for Greater Trochanteric Bursitis

There are several treatment options for greater trochanteric bursitis. The first step in treating this condition is to rest the affected hip joint. This can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Ice packs and anti-inflammatory medications can also be used to reduce pain and swelling.

Physical therapy is another treatment option for greater trochanteric bursitis. A physical therapist can help to improve hip strength and flexibility, which can reduce the risk of future injuries. They may also use techniques such as massage and stretching to relieve pain and discomfort.

In some cases, orthopedic surgery may be necessary to treat greater trochanteric bursitis. This is especially true if the condition is caused by bone spurs or other structural issues in the hip joint. An orthopedic surgeon can evaluate the hip joint and determine if surgery is necessary.

If you are experiencing symptoms of greater trochanteric bursitis, it is important to consult with an orthopedic surgeon or other healthcare professional. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend the best treatment options for your specific needs. Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of greater trochanteric bursitis to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Persistent hip pain may interfere with daily life in a major way, making it hard to remain seated, standing, or go about your usual routine. This pain can stop one from engaging in physical activities or other life choices they enjoy. Hip replacement surgery can be highly effective for someone who has to deal with this kind of pain. During your consultation, your orthopedic surgeon will perform a physical examination and determine whether you are a candidate for hip replacement surgery. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by established board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides hip replacement surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery is a procedure that is done for those who are suffering from extensive damage to their hip cartilage and bone. During the operation, portions of the hip joint are taken away and replaced with prosthetic parts. With a successful procedure, the hip’s mobility and function will be returned, as well as the alleviation of any discomfort.

Who is a Good Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery is most often carried out on individuals between the ages of 50 and 80, and can be done at any age if it is deemed medically essential. This type of operation is beneficial for individuals who experience hip discomfort that does not get better through taking medication, doing physical therapy, or exercising. People who suffer from arthritis had an injury, or have long-term issues with hip pain may also be suitable for the surgery. During your consultation with your surgeon, they will assist you in determining if surgery is the ideal choice.

Hip Replacement Benefits 

Opting for a hip replacement can help you return to an active life and relish the activities you love. With successful surgery, you will be able to move around without discomfort and experience relief from pain. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by established board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides hip replacement surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Shoulder instability typically happens when the lining of the shoulder joint, ligaments, or labrum are stretched, ripped, or detached, allowing the ball of the shoulder joint to move either all the way or partially out of its socket. This can cause a feeling of the shoulder giving out during movement, swelling, or limited mobility. There are both surgical and non-surgical treatment options available, both of which your surgeon will discuss with you during your consultation. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by established board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of shoulder instability to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

How is shoulder instability diagnosed?

During your consultation, your surgeon will ask you questions about your physical medical history as well as your symptoms. You will have a physical examination that will also help your surgeon determine the severity of your shoulder instability. X-rays or other imaging tests may be ordered to rule out the possibility of other injuries or conditions.

Symptoms of Shoulder Instability

Indications of shoulder instability include the feeling of the shoulder giving out. This feeling occurs when the ball of the shoulder comes out of the socket, may cause pain, and most commonly occurs when doing motions such as throwing or reaching. Other symptoms include limited mobility of the arm and shoulder, swelling and bruising.

Treatment

Non-surgical treatment of shoulder instability usually involves putting the arm into a sling and immobilizing it until the pain and swelling have subsided. Exercise and physical therapy is then used to strengthen the arm. Cold compressions and pain medications may be recommended to help ease the pain until the shoulder is better. Patients who do not opt for surgery typically have to do activity modification to avoid re-injury of the arm. Those who wish to continue playing sports or being active, or continue to suffer from discomfort, are recommended to have surgery. Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by established board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides treatment of shoulder instability to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada