Shoulder and Elbow

Shoulder and Elbow Care at Mercy

Shoulders and elbows are precious parts of the body. We rely on them to accomplish basic everyday tasks without even thinking. But over time, these joints can wear down, requiring treatment to restore function.

If your car breaks down, you wouldn't consult a mechanic who rarely works on your make and model. Health care should be no different.

Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons specialize in treating shoulder and elbow conditions. They have the training and experience of performing hundreds of procedures, ensuring that your surgery is as successful as it can be.

We take your care very seriously, and make sure you understand the risk and benefits of any procedure beforehand. Together, we'll put you on the right path toward recovery. 

Why Choose Mercy?

Here at Mercy, we're passionate about bringing the latest shoulder and elbow replacement technologies and treatment methods to each community we serve. So regardless of where you live, you'll never have to go far to receive industry-leading health care.

And thanks to Mercy's integrated network of providers, you'll have easy access to orthopedic specialists once you come in for your initial appointment. If you need any follow-up care, we'll be sure to refer you to the right person.

Plus, you can message your care team on MyMercy+, our one-stop-shop app that lets you set up appointments, see test results and more all from one convenient place. 

Considering Shoulder or Elbow Surgery? 

Whether you stay in shape by playing pickleball or working a physically demanding job, your shoulder and elbow joints will wear down over time with use. For most people, mild aches and pains will go away after a few days. But for others, joint pain can be a daily struggle, and won't simply go away with an ice pack, rest or ibuprofen.

If you have pain, stiffness or swelling in your shoulder or elbow, it may be time to see a Mercy specialist. It's especially important to see someone if you're having a hard time performing your usual daily activities. With proper diagnosis, treatment and care, we can help you make joint pain a thing of the past. 

Understanding the Shoulder and Elbow

Your shoulder is what's known as a ball-and-socket joint. That’s because the top of your upper arm is rounded and shaped like a ball. It fits into a cup-shaped hollow (socket) in your shoulder blade. Ball-and-socket joints are highly flexible. In fact, your shoulder has a broader, more complex range of motion than any other joint in your body.

Your elbow is a hinge joint that connects your forearm to your upper arm. It allows you to easily bend and straighten your arm.

Your shoulders and elbows are held together by various tissues. Ligaments connect the bones to other bones, and tendons connect bones to muscles. A layer of slippery tissue called cartilage covers the ends of your bones. This helps your bones glide against each other when your body moves.

If you injure the bone or surrounding tissue of your shoulder or elbow joint, you may have pain, swelling or other symptoms that make it harder to use your arm or shoulder.

Common Causes of Shoulder or Elbow Pain

At Mercy, we know that considering shoulder or elbow surgery is a big deal. And there are many factors that may affect your decision. We'll make sure you have the right information to move forward in your health care journey. Set aside some time to talk with us today.