Shoulder pain is a common problem that affects many people, not just athletes. Shoulder pain can be caused by tendon inflammation or tear, instability, arthritis or fracture. With proper examination, shoulder pain can be healed in a variety of ways. Local Ellisville resident, Ed J. Haas, experienced severe shoulder pain from weightlifting, has found relief and is able to enjoy his life.

Ed Haas, Shoulder Surgery Patient, and his wife Debbie.

In 2014, Ed Haas, Operations Manager of ENVIRO INC., began to experience discomfort in his right shoulder that caused sleepless nights and constant pain. The pain persisted, so Mr. Haas scheduled an appointment with Richard O’Keeffe, Jr., M.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon at South Central Orthopaedics in Laurel. After an initial assessment and a follow-up examination, Dr. O’Keeffe determined surgery was the best solution.

“I encourage patients that have pain or a problem with their shoulder to come in,” states Dr. O’Keeffe. “I can take a look at the issue and together we can determine the proper treatment plan. There is a very good chance that we can get you back to doing the things you want to do most.”

Mr. Haas’ scheduled arthroscopic surgery went well and he returned to work the week following his operation. There are various types of treatment for shoulder pain, and if the pain is not alleviated with conservative treatment, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery is available. Many orthopedic procedures today can be addressed through arthroscopic surgery, a practice that uses miniature devices introduced through small incisions rather than opening the joint with a large, traditional incision. Arthroscopic surgery is not the right solution for every case, but when it is appropriate, it can reduce scarring, shorten recovery time and reduce damage to surrounding tissues.

“I began rehabilitation two to three weeks after surgery for a total of eight weeks. The Outpatient Rehabilitation Department at South Central’s Wellness Center is great. The therapists and trainers were able to teach me how to properly heal. Three months following surgery, I was able to start weightlifting, pick up my grandchildren and have no shoulder pain.” says Haas.

It is common for patients to resume daily activities within a few days. Patients who are in good physical condition may, in some cases, return to athletic activities within a few weeks. It is important to consider that patients who have an arthroscopy can have many different diagnoses and preexisting conditions, so each patient’s arthroscopic surgery is unique to that person. Recovery time will reflect that individuality.

Richard M. O’Keeffe, Jr., M.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon at South Central Orthopaedics

“I have experienced shoulder pain for over 20 years and Dr. O’Keeffe was the first doctor who truly listened and took an individualized approach to my treatment and recovery,” says Haas. “I am thankful to have had a great experience from the first visit at South Central Orthopaedics, through surgery at South Central Regional Medical Center and completing physical therapy at South Central’s Wellness Center.”

Dr. O’Keeffe offers compassionate, comprehensive care with the goal of his patients returning to an active lifestyle as quickly and safely as possible. If you are experiencing shoulder pain or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. O’Keeffe, please contact South Central Orthopaedics at 601.649.5990. South Central Orthopaedics is located at 424 South 13^th Avenue in Laurel.