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Consult our MOH-accredited shoulder specialist for an accurate diagnosis & personalised treatment plan.
Shoulder Specialist In Singapore With 15+ Years of Experience
Dr Dennis Ng is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic shoulder specialist in Singapore who is experienced in diagnosing and treating shoulder pain and injuries.
He specialises in minimally invasive keyhole and knotless repair techniques for shoulder conditions. Consult Dr Dennis Ng today for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
Dr Dennis Ng Zhaowen
Symptoms of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can present in various ways, each indicative of underlying issues. Recognising these symptoms is important for early diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms of shoulder pain include:
- Radiating Pain
Shoulder pain may be restricted to the front, back, or top of the shoulder or spread to the elbow or hand. The pain can be constant and intensify with certain movements. Some people may also experience night pain that interferes with sleep, often seen in conditions like rotator cuff injuries and shoulder impingement. - Stiffness
Stiffness often accompanies shoulder pain, limiting the range of motion and making everyday activities challenging. This is a common symptom in conditions like a frozen shoulder. - Swelling
Swelling in the shoulder is often a sign of inflammation, which may also occur due to trauma, such as fractures or dislocations, leading to an accumulation of fluid in the soft tissues surrounding the joint. Identifying the source of swelling quickly helps manage it, which may limit mobility and cause discomfort. - Weak Shoulders
Weakness in the shoulder is often due to muscle tears, nerve compression, or severe inflammation. This weakness can make lifting objects or performing tasks that require shoulder strength challenging. - Clicking or Popping Sensation
A sensation of clicking, popping, or grinding in the shoulder can be a sign of labral tears, arthritis, or other structural issues within the joint. These sensations might be accompanied by discomfort and are often signs of structural abnormalities within the joint. - Limited Range of Motion
A substantial decrease in the shoulder’s range of motion, where lifting or rotating the arm becomes difficult, can indicate serious conditions like rotator cuff injuries or severe arthritis. This can severely impair shoulder function and everyday life.
Common Shoulder Conditions We Treat
These conditions can result from injuries, degenerative changes, or inflammatory processes. Here are some common shoulder conditions that shoulder specialists treat:
- Frozen Shoulder - Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that results in loss of motion and pain or stiffness in the shoulder.
- Rotator Cuff Injury - The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons stabilising the shoulder joint. Injuries like tears or tendinitis can cause pain and weakness, often from repetitive overhead activities or acute trauma.
- SLAP Tears - A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum from Anterior to Posterior) occurs when the top part of the labrum, the ring of cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket, is injured. This condition can occur due to acute trauma, such as a fall onto an outstretched arm, or from repetitive shoulder motions often seen in overhead sports like baseball or swimming.
- Dislocated Shoulder - A shoulder dislocation happens when the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) is forced out of the shoulder socket. This condition is usually caused by a sudden impact or fall, leading to severe pain, swelling, and restricted shoulder movement.
- Shoulder Impingement Syndrome - This condition is when the tendons of the rotator cuff become compressed or "impinged" in the shoulder joint, leading to pain and inflammation, especially when lifting the arm overhead.
- Shoulder Arthritis - Shoulder arthritis can be caused by wear and tear (osteoarthritis) or autoimmune conditions (rheumatoid arthritis). It causes joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Symptoms worsen with activity and improve with rest.
- Shoulder Lump - A lump in the shoulder can have various causes, including cysts, lipomas (benign fatty tumours), or more serious conditions like infections or malignancies. Proper diagnosis is recommended to determine the appropriate treatment.
- Shoulder Swelling - Swelling around the shoulder joint may indicate inflammation, injury, or infection. Conditions such as bursitis, tendonitis, or fractures commonly present with swelling, which can restrict movement and cause pain.
- Shoulder Ligament Injuries - Ligament injuries in the shoulder, such as sprains or tears, can occur from trauma or overuse. These injuries can lead to instability, pain, and decreased shoulder function.
- Complex Trauma - Complex trauma to the shoulder involves multiple injuries, such as fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue damage. These injuries often need a thorough evaluation and treatment plan to restore function and reduce pain.
- Shoulder Fractures - A shoulder fracture is a break in one of the shoulder bones. Three bones make up the shoulder joint: the clavicle (collarbone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the humerus (upper arm bone). Fractures in this area can result from falls, sports activities, and accidents.
Diagnostic Approaches
A combination of medical history, physical examinations, and imaging tests will be used to diagnose shoulder conditions. Here are the common diagnostic approaches:
Medical History
The diagnostic process often begins with a detailed medical history. The shoulder specialist will ask about the symptoms you are experiencing, recent injuries or accidents, activities, and pre-existing medical conditions like arthritis or previous shoulder problems.
Physical Examination
A thorough physical examination allows the shoulder specialist to examine the shoulder’s function and identify areas of concern. This includes checking for visible swelling, deformities, or muscle wastage. The shoulder specialist will also feel the shoulders to check for soreness, warmth, or unusual lumps and conduct a range of motion and strength tests.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests provide detailed pictures of the shoulder’s internal structures, helping to identify specific injuries or conditions. Common imaging tests include:
- X-rays: X-rays are used to visualise shoulder bones, detecting fractures, dislocations, and signs of arthritis.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans create detailed images of the shoulder’s soft tissues. They help detect injuries like rotator cuff and labral tears.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound uses sound waves to create live images of the shoulder’s soft tissues, particularly for assessing tendon tears and directing injections.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): CT scans use X-ray images from different angles to create detailed shoulder images. They are useful for diagnosing complex fractures and help in surgical planning.
Treatment Options
We offer both surgical and non-surgical treatments tailored to the specific condition, its severity, and the patient’s overall health and preferences.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of management for many shoulder conditions. These treatments reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing without surgery.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy involves exercises and techniques designed to strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and restore normal movement. The shoulder specialist will create a personalised exercise plan to address the specific condition. Common exercises and techniques include pendulum exercises, shoulder blade squeezes, internal and external rotation, and wall climbing.
Medication Management
Medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation in the shoulder.
Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the shoulder joint. These injections can provide relief, especially for bursitis or tendonitis.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy involves injecting a concentration of the patient’s platelets into the shoulder to promote healing. Platelets contain growth factors that can help repair damaged tissues.
Heat and Ice Therapy
Applying heat or ice to the shoulder can help reduce pain and inflammation. Apply an ice pack for 15-20 minutes daily to reduce swelling, and use a warm towel or heating pad for 15-20 minutes to help relax and loosen tissues. Patients may alternate between heat and ice therapy to provide relief.
Surgical Treatments
Surgical treatments may be required when shoulder problems are severe or do not respond to non-surgical treatments:
Frozen Shoulder Release
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, involves stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Frozen shoulder release surgery aims to relieve this stiffness by cutting through tight portions of the joint capsule, allowing for improved movement.
Rotator Cuff Repair
Rotator cuff repair is surgery to repair a torn tendon in the shoulder. This involves reattaching the torn tendon to its footprint on the humerus (upper arm bone). The procedure can be done with shoulder arthroscopy, which uses a small camera called an arthroscope that is inserted into the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that form a cuff over the shoulder.
SLAP Tear Surgery
SLAP tear surgery is often done to repair torn ligaments in the inner part of your shoulder joint. The tears can be caused by injury or overuse, making it painful or difficult for you to move your shoulder and arm. Left untreated, these tears can cause chronic pain and limit how much you can use your arm and shoulder, which can lead to more serious shoulder problems.
Minimally Invasive Clavicle Fixation
Clavicle (collarbone) fractures are common and sometimes require surgical intervention. Minimally invasive clavicle fixation involves using small incisions and special tools to realign and secure the broken bone with plates or screws, promoting proper healing.
Joint Revision Surgery (Complex Joint Replacement)
Joint revision surgery is performed when a previous shoulder replacement has failed or worn out. This complex procedure involves removing and replacing the old prosthesis with a new one, restoring function and reducing pain.
Shoulder Joint Replacement
Shoulder joint replacement, or arthroplasty, involves replacing the damaged parts of the shoulder with artificial components. This procedure is typically used for severe arthritis or irreparable rotator cuff injuries to alleviate pain and restore movement.
Shoulder Arthroscopy (Keyhole Surgery)
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure with a small camera (arthroscope) and surgical tools inserted through tiny incisions. This allows the shoulder specialist to diagnose and treat various shoulder conditions, such as rotator cuff or labral tears, with less tissue damage and quicker recovery times.
When to See a Shoulder Specialist
You should see a shoulder specialist if you experience persistent or severe shoulder pain, limited range of motion, weakness, or visible swelling and deformity that does not improve with home treatment. A professional evaluation is important if you also have numbness or tingling in your arm or hand, suffer an injury from sports or accidents, or have a chronic shoulder condition that requires ongoing care. Early diagnosis and treatment by a shoulder specialist can prevent further complications and promote effective recovery.
WHY CHOOSE DR DENNIS NG
Effective & Evidence-Based Orthopaedic Care
Dr. Dennis Ng is dedicated to understanding your unique needs, focusing on restoring
your active lifestyle and overall well-being.
Specialised Experience In Complex Procedures
PATIENT-CENTRED & PERSONALISED APPROACH
Dedicated Aftercare For Optimal Recovery
AFFORDABLE & TRANSPARENT PRICING
Our Patients' Feedback
Learn what our patients have to say about our treatments and services.
Meow Kim Ong2024-11-26Dr Dennis Ng is very patient and clear with his diagnosis and explanation. He replied all questions with clarity and was very re assuring with his views of the solution. He also did a wonderful job of the surgery to repair my shoulder and took very good care of the post surgery follow up reviews supporting and reassuring at each recovery phase. I was so impressed with this through diagnosis and bedside manners that I recommended a colleague with shoulder injury to see him as well. She too is mow in recovery phase and sings praises of him.
Wilson Quek2024-11-15Had seen Dr Dennis Ng for my Left Knee Cap n Left Shoulder Ligaments Repair on 2 Separate ops date. Both ops were successful n I fully covered now. A great n patience doctor who have gd experience in this field. Highly Recommended....
Arief Johan2024-10-12Dr. Dennis & team at AHS Novena had been providing superb service. Happy with the attentiveness, the result and everything else. Kudos!
Catherine New2024-10-11I saw Dr Dennis Ng for a persistent pain on my pelvic bone. He is very thorough in symptom diagnosis to eliminate any potential root causes. Patient and eloquent in explaining complex medical terms to layman . Humble and friendly at every review. Thank you !
Angeline Ng2024-10-07Dr Dennis Ng is very patient to explain to me on my condition and answer to all my queries and also provide me advice regarding my severe backpain. He is a nice and patient doctor.
Joshua Ng2024-08-16Dr Dennis is very efficient and detailed in his diagnosis and reviews. My entire experience with Dennis has been nothing short of friendly and informative and would highly recommend him if you have any injuries in need of an orthopaedic doctor.
Lee Meng Yang2024-07-18Great experience. Doctor gave very specific and accurate diagnosis, everything was done very efficiently!
Jared G2024-07-12Wonderful experience and Dr. Denis is very knowledgeable.
Jeremy Teo2024-05-16I tore my left pec muscle after a bench press accident and had the fortune of getting help from Dr Dennis. He is a very caring and helpful individual that you can tell wants the best healing progress for you and actively follows up with you sincerely. I initially had a two month delay and misdiagnosis at Ktph and it caused my tendon to retract. Should have went to Dr Dennis from the start.. 5/5
Dr Dennis Ng Zhaowen
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
38 Irrawaddy Road #08-41, Singapore 329563
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Visit Us Today
Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre
38 Irrawaddy Road #08-41
Singapore 329563
Monday – Friday: 9am – 1pm; 2pm – 5pm
Saturday: 9am – 1pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Other Clinic Location
Gleneagles Medical Center
6 Napier Road #07-15
Singapore 258499
Monday – Friday: 9am – 1pm; 2pm – 5pm
Saturday: 9am – 1pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I prevent shoulder injuries?
Regularly strengthening and stretching the shoulder muscles through exercises can help maintain joint stability and flexibility. Using protective gear during sports and taking breaks to rest the shoulder can also reduce the risk of injury.
How long does it take to recover from shoulder surgery?
Recovery time from shoulder surgery varies depending on the type of procedure performed and the patient’s condition. Generally, it can take several weeks to several months for full recovery. Physical therapy plays an important role in the rehabilitation process by helping to restore strength and range of motion. Your shoulder specialist will provide a detailed recovery plan tailored to your specific needs.
When should surgery be considered, and what are the potential risks and benefits?
Surgery should be considered when non-surgical treatments fail to relieve pain and improve shoulder function. It may be required for severe rotator cuff tears, dislocations, fractures, or progressive arthritis. The benefits of surgery include pain relief, improved shoulder function, and quality of life. However, potential risks include infection, bleeding, nerve injury, and complications from anaesthesia. Discussing these risks and benefits with a shoulder specialist can help determine the best course of action.