SHOULDER
The shoulder is one of the most flexible and complex joints in the body, allowing a wide range of motion essential for daily tasks, sport and work activities. However, this range of motion also makes the shoulder prone to injury, strain, and degenerative conditions that can cause pain, weakness or restricted movement. Prof. Odette Koch, a specialist orthopaedic surgeon with advanced expertise in upper limb conditions, provides personalised care, precise diagnosis and effective treatment options to help patients restore shoulder comfort and function.
Why Shoulder Pain Occurs
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the humerus (upper arm bone) and the glenoid (part of the shoulder blade), supported by muscles, tendons and ligaments. Its complexity allows versatility, but it also makes the shoulder susceptible to a range of conditions, including:
Rotator cuff tendon tears or tendinopathy
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Bursitis and inflammation
Instability or dislocation
Arthritis and joint degeneration
Trauma or fractures
Whether pain develops gradually from overuse or suddenly due to injury, early assessment with a specialist helps ensure the most appropriate treatment and best chance of recovery.
Common Shoulder Conditions We Treat
Prof. Koch evaluates and treats a wide spectrum of shoulder problems, including:
- Rotator Cuff Injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder. Overuse, degeneration or trauma can lead to tears, pain and weakness.
- Shoulder Impingement: When tendons or bursa become pinched during shoulder motion, it can cause inflammation, pain and restricted movement.
- Shoulder Instability: Repetitive stress or a previous dislocation may lead to instability, causing the shoulder to feel loose or slip out of place.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa — small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction — often results in swelling and discomfort.
- Arthritis: Joint degeneration or osteoarthritis leads to stiffness, aching and reduced function.Each patient is carefully assessed to determine which underlying issue is contributing to symptoms, and a tailored treatment plan is developed.
Shoulder Treatment Options
Treatment for shoulder conditions varies according to the diagnosis and severity of symptoms. Prof. Koch favours evidence-based, conservative treatments whenever possible, while offering advanced surgical care when necessary.
Non-Surgical (Conservative) Management
Physiotherapy and structured rehabilitation programs
Activity modification and ergonomic advice
Anti-inflammatory medication or injections
Muscle strengthening and posture-based exercises
Conservative care often leads to significant improvement, particularly when guided by a specialist.
Surgical Treatment
When non-surgical care is insufficient, surgical options may be recommended, such as:
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
Subacromial decompression for impingement
Stabilisation procedures for instability
Joint preservation or reconstruction techniques
Prof. Koch uses modern surgical techniques designed to reduce trauma, enhance recovery and improve functional outcomes.
This list includes instances of commonly treated conditions, but is not exhaustive
Why Choose Prof. Odette Koch for Shoulder Care?
Prof. Koch’s approach combines clinical expertise with a deep understanding of the biomechanics and function of the shoulder joint. She focuses on:
Accurate diagnosis and personalised care
Clear communication and shared decision-making
A patient-centred treatment journey
Evidence-based surgical and non-surgical methods
Her goal is to help patients achieve lasting pain relief, improved strength and confidence in returning to daily activities and sport.
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