Press Release

New York, NY ( connect2business.co.uk ) January 27, 2014 - Shoulder pain is often one of the most common complaints among patients. The shoulder is made of three bones, including the shoulder blade (scapula), the collarbone (clavicle), and the upper arm bone (humerus). Because so many structures are contained within the shoulder, it is very vulnerable to injury and discomfort.

Renowned orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Francis X. Mendoza, says that shoulder impingement occurs when the front of the shoulder blade rubs against the rotator cuff, when a person lifts his or her arm. The rotator cuff is a series of muscles, which keep the shoulder firmly in place and allows the patient to comfortably lift and move their arms. If the rotator cuff is injured, Dr. Mendoza says that serious pain and weakness can result. This pain and weakness cannot be resolved without treatment.

According to Dr. Mendoza, shoulder impingement is common in both middle-aged adults and young athletes. Repetitive lifting, or activities which involve overhead motions of the arm, are often considered risk factors for the condition. Pain can also result due to minor injury. Shoulder impingement often worsens over time. Some of the most common symptoms of impingement include difficulty reaching up behind the back, weakness or tenderness of the shoulder muscles, and difficulty elevating the arms.

Dr. Mendoza says that shoulder impingement is initially diagnosed with a physical examination, as well as an assessment of the patient's medical history. According to Dr. Mendoza, x-rays must also be taken of the shoulder to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis. Once the condition is diagnosed, Dr. Mendoza will then work with the patient to establish an effective treatment plan.

Dr. Mendoza explains that oral anti-inflammatory medications are among the most common forms of treatment for this condition. These medicines will usually take a few weeks to become effective. Some possible side-effects associated with such medications include irritation, and bleeding. Physical therapy and daily exercises, including stretching, can help relieve symptoms. If symptoms persist despite medication, cortisone injections may be helpful.

If any pain or weakness continues despite nonsurgical measures, Dr. Mendoza says that an MRI or ultrasound will be performed to rule out a torn rotator cuff. If the rotator cuff is torn, surgery may be necessary.

Dr. Mendoza practices in New York, New York. Interested parties are encouraged to contact 212.628.9600, or to find out more at http://www.fxmendozamd.com.

About Dr. Mendoza

Dr. Francis Mendoza graduated from Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons and completed orthopedic and shoulder training at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. He has served as the Director of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital, and is a member of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, the Mid-Atlantic Shoulder and Elbow Society, and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Using his extensive knowledge in shoulder and elbow orthopedics, Dr. Mendoza also teaches residents and practicing orthopedic surgeons advanced surgical techniques and has been recognized as a top shoulder surgeon by Castle Connolly and by consumer groups. Dr. Mendoza offers expertise and experience in treating various orthopedic injuries and provides patients with top-of-the-line treatment.

Dr. Mendoza can be reached at 212.628.9600 in New York, NY, and interested parties can also visit his website at http://www.fxmendozamd.com.

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Dr. Francis Mendoza graduated from Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons and completed orthopedic and shoulder training at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. He has served as the Director of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital, and is a member of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, the Mid-Atlantic Shoulder and Elbow Society, and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Organisation Profile:
Dr. Mendoza offers expertise and experience in treating various orthopedic injuries and provides patients with top-of-the-line treatment. Dr. Mendoza can be reached at (212) 628-9600 in New York, NY, and interested parties can also visit his website at http://www.fxmendozamd.com