Rotator cuff tears, dislocations, impingement and frozen shoulder. Understand what’s causing your shoulder pain and how it can be treated.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicolás Zarur · Updated October 2026
Your shoulder is the most mobile joint in your body, and that makes it vulnerable. Whether the pain came after a fall, a game or years of overhead work, an accurate diagnosis is the first step, and many shoulder problems improve without surgery.
Damage to the tendons that lift and rotate your arm, from injury or wear.
The ball slips out of the socket, often after a fall or contact sport.
Tendons rub against the bone when lifting the arm, causing pain and inflammation.
Injury to the rim of cartilage in the socket, common in throwing sports.
The joint capsule stiffens and movement becomes painful and limited.
Dr. Zarur starts with a detailed exam of strength and motion and, when needed, an X-ray, ultrasound or MRI. Then he explains what’s going on and every option.
Non-surgical
Rest, physical therapy, medication and injections. Effective for most impingement, bursitis and partial tears.
Arthroscopy
Minimally invasive surgery to repair tendons, the labrum or an unstable shoulder through small incisions.
Repair
Reattaching a torn rotator cuff tendon to the bone to restore strength.
Replacement
Shoulder replacement for advanced arthritis or complex fractures. [Confirm if Dr. Zarur performs it.]
Lying on the shoulder puts pressure on irritated tendons, and there are fewer distractions at night. It’s a typical sign of rotator cuff problems.
Not always. Dr. Zarur decides after the exam. If you already have an MRI, send it to us for review.
After a first dislocation, many patients recover with rehab. In young athletes or when it happens again, surgery is often recommended to prevent new dislocations.
No. It usually improves over months with physical therapy and treatment, although recovery can be slow.
Yes. Our Tijuana office is minutes from San Diego, and we offer remote MRI review before you travel.
Book a visit in Tijuana or Mexico City, or send us your MRI for a remote review.
Get a clear diagnosis and honest options. We reply within one business day.
Trusted by Champions
Former President of the Mexican Football Federation’s Medical Commission and team physician for Cruz Azul, Morelia, Veracruz and Frontón México.
