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Shoulder Specialist in Singapore
Dr Kau (许医生) is a Fellowship trained Orthopaedic Surgeon with more than 15 years of experience. He is experienced in trauma, fracture management and sports injuries. He also treats patients using minimally invasive procedures like shoulder arthroscopy. Make an appointment with Dr Kau for a consultation and a personalised shoulder treatment plan.
Dr Kau Chung Yuan (许医生)
MBBS (S’PORE)
MRCS (Ireland)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCSEd (Ortho)
What Is A Shoulder Specialist?
A shoulder specialist is a medical professional with extensive training in diagnosing, treating, and managing conditions and injuries affecting the shoulder.
They have advanced knowledge in orthopaedic surgery, physical therapy, and sports medicine to address various issues, from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Shoulder specialists are adept at employing surgical and non-surgical treatment modalities to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve the quality of life for patients.
The Shoulder
The shoulder joint is a remarkable and complex structure that provides a wide range of motion and functionality to the upper body. Composed of several bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, it enables activities such as lifting, reaching, and throwing.
For specialised shoulder care, Dr Kau offers a range of services to help diagnose, treat, and restore optimal function to your shoulder joint.
Common Shoulder Conditions
- Rotator Cuff Tears
This condition involves tearing the muscles or tendons in the rotator cuff, leading to pain and decreased arm mobility. - Shoulder Instability
This occurs when the shoulder joint is excessively loose, causing it to move excessively or dislocate within its socket. - Dislocations
This injury happens when the shoulder joint is displaced from its socket, resulting in significant pain and a loss of mobility. - Labral Tear
Damage to the labrum, a cartilage ring surrounding the shoulder joint socket, affects the shoulder’s stability and movement. - Arthritis
A degenerative condition affecting the joint leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the shoulder. - Tendinitis
This is the inflammation of the shoulder tendons, commonly due to repetitive use, causing pain and limiting movement.
Diagnostic Approaches
To diagnose shoulder conditions accurately, a variety of techniques are employed:
Patient History
Collecting detailed information on symptoms, injury mechanisms, and activity levels that may contribute to shoulder issues.
Physical Examination
Assessing pain, mobility, strength, and stability of the shoulder through various physical tests.
Imaging Tests
- X-rays: Identifying bone fractures, dislocations, and signs of arthritis.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Offer detailed images of soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and the labrum.
- CT (Computed Tomography) Scans: Provide a more detailed view of the bone structures in the shoulder.
Specialised Tests
- Ultrasound: Used to visualise soft tissue structures and assess dynamic shoulder function.
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows doctors to view the inside of the joint.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for shoulder conditions can be categorised into non-surgical and surgical interventions.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physical Therapy: Tailored exercises to improve strength and flexibility.
- Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid to reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgical Treatments
- Shoulder Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgery using a camera and instruments through small incisions to diagnose and repair shoulder issues.
- Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression: Relieves pressure on the rotator cuff by removing inflamed tissue or bone spurs.
- Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: Mends torn rotator cuff tendons through minimally invasive techniques.
- Acromioclavicular Joint Fixation and Stabilisation: Stabilises the joint at the top of the shoulder after dislocation or injury.
- Distal Humerus Fracture Fixation: Involves repairing fractures near the elbow end of the upper arm bone.
- Humerus Shaft Fracture Fixation: Addresses breaks along the main length of the upper arm bone.
Shoulder Treatments We Offer
- Shoulder Arthroscopy
- Arthroscopic Subacromial Decompression
- Arthroscopic Labral Repair
- Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
- Acromioclavicular Joint Fixation and Stabilisation
- Clavicle Fracture Fixation
- Distal Humerus Fracture Fixation
- Humerus Neck Fracture Fixation
- Humerus Shaft Fracture Fixation
- Humeral Intramedullary Nailing
When To See A Shoulder Specialist
- Persistent Shoulder Pain
If you experience persistent shoulder pain that lasts for an extended period or does not improve with rest or over-the-counter remedies, it is advisable to consult a shoulder doctor. - Limited Range of Motion
If you notice a significant decrease in your shoulder’s range of motion, such as difficulty raising your arm, reaching overhead, or performing daily activities, consult a shoulder specialist. - Shoulder Injuries or Instability
If you have experienced a shoulder injury, such as a dislocation, or if you have recurrent episodes of shoulder instability, it is important to seek the expertise of an orthopaedic doctor.
Rehabilitation
After surgery, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the recovery process, involving:
- Initial Rest and Pain Management: Early postoperative phase focusing on reducing swelling and pain.
- Physical Therapy: Begins with gentle motion exercises, gradually increasing in intensity to strengthen and improve shoulder function.
- Occupational Therapy: This may be recommended to assist patients in returning to daily activities and work-related tasks.
Dr. Kau Chung Yuan
MBBS (S’pore)
MRCS (Ireland)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCSEd (Ortho)
Dr Kau (许医生) is a Fellowship trained Orthopaedic Surgeon with a subspecialty interest in Hip and Knee surgery and has been in practice for more than 15 years.
He is experienced in trauma and fracture management, sports injuries, and joint replacement surgery.
- Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh, Orthopaedics (FRCS, Edin) 2014
- Master of Medicine (Orthopaedics), Singapore (MMed) 2013
- Member of the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (MRCS, Ire) 2009
- Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS, Singapore) 2004
Patient Journey with Dr Kau
Consultation
During the initial consultation, Dr Kau will evaluate your medical history, assess your condition and advise you on the next course of action.
Investigation
After consultation, Dr Kau will decide which tests are needed. Most conditions will benefit from an X-ray and MRI of the affected region to aid in your diagnosis.
Treatment
After diagnosis, Dr Kau will recommend a personalised non-invasive or surgical treatment plan, depending on your condition.
Partnered Programs & Insurance Plans
For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.
Patient Feedback
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Visit Us Today
1
Mount Elizabeth Novena
Specialist Centre
Specialist Centre
2
Mount Alvernia
Hospital
Hospital
3
Farrer Park
Hospital
Hospital
1, #02-01 Farrer Park Station Rd,
Connexion, Singapore 217562
Connexion, Singapore 217562
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my shoulder is torn or strained?
A torn shoulder often exhibits severe pain, weakness, limited range of motion, and a popping or clicking sensation. With a shoulder strain, you may experience localised pain, muscle spasms, swelling, and difficulty with certain movements. However, a professional evaluation by an orthopaedic shoulder specialist is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment.
How long does a shoulder surgery take to heal?
The healing time after shoulder surgery varies depending on the procedure and individual factors. Generally, initial recovery can take weeks to months, while complete healing and full recovery may take several months to a year.
How can I tell if shoulder pain is serious?
Determining the seriousness of shoulder pain depends on its intensity, persistence, and associated symptoms. Severe, worsening pain, limited range of motion, and additional symptoms like swelling or joint instability may indicate a more serious issue. It is advisable to seek medical evaluation if unsure or experiencing significant discomfort or functional limitations.
How long is the recovery after shoulder surgery?
Recovery varies based on the procedure and individual health but generally includes rest, pain management, and a tailored rehabilitation program.
Can shoulder conditions return after treatment?
While treatments aim to resolve issues effectively, some conditions can recur, especially without proper post-treatment care and lifestyle adjustments.
How can I prevent shoulder injuries?
Maintaining good physical condition, practising proper techniques during activities, and avoiding overuse can help prevent shoulder injuries.
Can diet and nutrition impact recovery from shoulder surgery?
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins can support healing by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.