Recent advances in shoulder therapy include minimally invasive procedures, advanced surgical techniques like reverse shoulder replacement and 3D printing, and non-surgical options like Regenexx and bioinductive implants for rotator cuff injuries. These innovations aim to improve pain relief, functional recovery, and overall quality of life for patients with various shoulder conditions.

Minimally Invasive Procedures:

• Arthroscopy:

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique that allows surgeons to visualize and repair shoulder issues through small incisions.

• InSpace Balloon Implants:

This technique utilizes a biodegradable balloon to create space between the upper arm bone and shoulder blade, reducing pain and improving mobility in cases of irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Advanced Surgical Techniques:

• Reverse Shoulder Replacement:

This procedure, used for severe arthritis or irreparable rotator cuff tears, changes the shoulder’s mechanics to allow other muscles to move it.

• 3D Printing:

3D printing allows for the creation of customized implants that fit specific patient anatomies and bone damage, improving outcomes.

• Patient-Specific Instruments:

These instruments, manufactured to the patient’s specific anatomy, aid in the precise placement of implants during surgery.

Non-Surgical Options:

• Regenexx Approach:

This approach uses precise image-guided injections of your body’s own healing agents (platelet-rich plasma or bone marrow concentrate) to treat shoulder injuries and avoid surgery.

• Regeneten Medical Rotator Cuff System:

This system utilizes a bioinductive implant that promotes tendon regeneration and healing in rotator cuff injuries.

• Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation (c-RFA):

This thermal therapy uses heat to treat the main sensory nerves around the shoulder, potentially reducing pain and improving quality of life for patients with shoulder arthritis.

• Capsular Release:

This procedure releases the thickened and tight capsule of connective tissues surrounding the shoulder, treating frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).

Other Advancements:

• Mixed Reality and Robotic-Assisted Surgery:

These technologies are increasingly used in shoulder surgery to enhance precision and surgical outcomes.

• Advanced Materials:

Materials like pyrocarbon are being explored for shoulder replacements, offering improved surface properties that better simulate bone.