The shoulder is one of the most complex and flexible joints in the human body, allowing a wide range of motion and making it essential for various daily activities and sports. However, its versatility also makes it susceptible to injuries, particularly among those engaged in sports and physical activities.
Dr. Michael Adams, a board-certified shoulder surgeon at UF Health Durbin Park in St. Johns County, FL, is experienced with the common shoulder injuries and effective treatments for shoulder pain and when it’s time for shoulder surgery.
Doc Adams at UF Health Durbin Park in St. Johns County, FL
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Common shoulder
problems & Treatments
Rotator Cuff Tendinitis
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a range of movements. Rotator cuff tendinitis occurs when these tendons become inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse. This condition is particularly prevalent among athletes who perform overhead motions, such as in tennis, baseball, and weightlifting.
Symptoms of rotator cuff tendinitis include a dull ache in the shoulder, pain during overhead activities, and difficulty sleeping on the affected side. The pain often worsens with activity and typically improves with rest. Cortisone injections or PRP injections can also be injected into your shoulder to help reduce pain and swelling. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove inflamed tissue and bone spurs.
Rotator Cuff TEARS
A rotator cuff tear is a more severe injury involving partial or complete tears of one or more rotator cuff tendons. This injury can result from acute trauma, such as a fall, or from chronic overuse. Tears can be partial or full-thickness, and they often lead to significant pain and functional limitations.
Common symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include sharp pain in the shoulder, weakness when lifting or rotating the arm, and a limited range of motion. You may also experience a feeling of instability or catching in the shoulder joint.
Dr. Adams is pioneering the use of a breakthrough technology designed for people suffering from rotator cuff tendon tears in the shoulder joint. The REGENETEN Bioinductive Implant, an innovative, minimally invasive solution, goes beyond traditional surgery to help the tendon heal through the induction of new tendinous tissue growth.
Labral Tears
The labrum is a ring of cartilage that surrounds the shoulder socket and helps keep the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) in place. Labral tears can occur from acute injuries or chronic overuse. The most common type of labral tear is a SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) tear, which affects the top part of the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches.
Symptoms of a labral tear include a catching or locking sensation in the shoulder, pain, and a feeling of instability. Activities involving overhead motions or lifting may exacerbate the symptoms. Cortisone injections or PRP injections can also be injected into your shoulder to help reduce pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the tear, or a new labrum can be rebuilt.
Shoulder Bursitis
Bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac that provides cushioning between bones and soft tissues. Shoulder bursitis is often caused by repetitive motion or trauma, leading to pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Symptoms of shoulder bursitis include localized pain over the shoulder, swelling, and a feeling of warmth around the joint. The pain may be particularly noticeable when moving the shoulder or resting it on a hard surface.
Doc Adams at UF Health Durbin Park in St. Johns County, FL
If you encounter severe pain, significant swelling, or an inability to move your shoulder, it’s important to consult Dr. Michael Adams at UF Health Durbin Park in St. Johns County, FL who specializes in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries. He can provide a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.
For expert orthopedic care and advice on shoulder injury prevention and treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael Adams.



