Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition where the shoulder gradually becomes stiff, restricted, and difficult to move. It often develops slowly, worsens over several months, and then eventually improves. Although it is common, it can significantly disrupt daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life. At T&P Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, our specialists diagnose frozen shoulder early and provide effective treatment options to restore movement and reduce pain.

What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened. This tissue forms the shoulder capsule, which helps stabilize the joint. As the capsule tightens and stiffens, there is less room for the shoulder to move. This restriction leads to progressive pain, stiffness, and difficulty with basic activities such as reaching overhead, putting on clothing, or lifting objects.

Why Frozen Shoulder Happens

There is no single cause of frozen shoulder, but several factors increase the likelihood of developing it.

After Injury or Surgery

If the shoulder is immobilized after an injury or surgical procedure, lack of movement can cause the capsule to tighten and stiffen.

Diabetes and Other Medical Conditions

Frozen shoulder is more common in people with diabetes, thyroid disease, or metabolic disorders. These conditions may affect inflammation and healing.

Autoimmune or Inflammatory Response

Some cases may be linked to an exaggerated inflammatory response that causes the body to produce excess scar-like tissue around the shoulder.

Age and Gender

Frozen shoulder most often affects adults between ages 40 and 60 and is more common in women.

Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Patients typically experience symptoms in three phases:

Freezing Phase

Pain increases gradually, especially at night. Shoulder movement becomes more limited.

Frozen Phase

Pain may improve, but stiffness becomes severe. Daily tasks feel difficult.

Thawing Phase

Range of motion begins to return slowly as the capsule loosens.

The entire process can take months to over a year without treatment.

How Frozen Shoulder Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis involves a physical exam to assess range of motion and pain patterns. X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI may be used to rule out other shoulder problems, such as rotator cuff tears or arthritis. Identifying frozen shoulder early leads to more effective and faster treatment.

What Helps Frozen Shoulder Improve

Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving range of motion, and restoring shoulder function.

Physical Therapy

Stretching, mobility exercises, and targeted strengthening help gently restore shoulder movement. This is the most important part of recovery.

Anti-inflammatory Medications

These help control pain and reduce inflammation during the early stages.

Corticosteroid Injections

Steroid injections can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility, allowing physical therapy to be more effective.

Hydrodilatation

This treatment involves injecting fluid into the joint capsule to stretch and loosen it from the inside.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

For severe cases that do not improve, arthroscopic capsular release can loosen the stiffened tissue and restore mobility.

Recovering From Frozen Shoulder

Recovery takes time, but most patients regain near-normal function with proper treatment. Consistency with physical therapy and early intervention make a significant difference.

If you are experiencing shoulder stiffness that is limiting your daily life, T&P Orthopedics and Sports Medicine can help you find relief and regain full function.

Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments,contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Knee pain caused by arthritis, cartilage loss, or joint degeneration can severely limit mobility and quality of life. When nonsurgical treatments such as injections, bracing, and physical therapy no longer provide relief, knee replacement surgery becomes a reliable and effective option. Depending on the pattern and severity of damage in the knee joint, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend either a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement. Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision about your care. At T&P Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, our surgeons specialize in both procedures and create individualized plans to restore comfort, strength, and long-term function.

What Is a Total Knee Replacement?

A total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, replaces all three compartments of the knee. These compartments include the medial (inner), lateral (outer), and patellofemoral (front) compartments. During surgery, damaged cartilage and bone are removed and replaced with smooth, durable implants that mimic the movement of a healthy knee.

Best Candidates for Total Knee Replacement

• Patients with advanced osteoarthritis affecting multiple compartments
• Individuals with significant stiffness or deformity
• Patients whose pain limits daily activities such as standing, walking, or climbing stairs
• People who have not responded to conservative treatment

Total knee replacement offers the most comprehensive solution for widespread knee degeneration.

What Is a Partial Knee Replacement?

A partial knee replacement, sometimes called unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, replaces only the damaged section of the knee. If arthritis is isolated to a single compartment, the surgeon preserves the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments in the rest of the joint. This allows for a more targeted and less invasive procedure.

Best Candidates for Partial Knee Replacement

• Patients with arthritis limited to one compartment
• Individuals with good ligament stability
• Patients who maintain a healthy weight
• Those seeking a more natural-feeling knee after surgery

Because more of the natural joint is preserved, partial replacement can provide excellent function and a quicker recovery for properly selected patients.

Key Differences Between Total and Partial Knee Replacement

Amount of Joint Replaced

Total replacement resurfaces all three compartments, while partial replacement focuses on only one.

Surgical Approach

Partial knee replacement involves smaller incisions, less bone removal, and less disruption to surrounding tissues.

Recovery Timeline

Partial replacements often have a faster initial recovery and may result in less postoperative discomfort and swelling. Total replacements require more healing time but are more appropriate for widespread arthritis.

Long-Term Outcomes

Total knee replacement generally provides longer-lasting relief when arthritis affects the entire joint. Partial knee replacement can offer excellent durability if arthritis does not spread to other compartments.

Function and Feel

Partial knee replacements often feel more natural because the ligaments, including the ACL and PCL, are preserved. Total knee replacement relies more on implant mechanics to stabilize the joint.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between total and partial knee replacement depends on several factors:
• The pattern of arthritis on imaging
• Your age and activity level
• Ligament stability
• The presence of deformity such as bowing or knock-knees
• Your overall health and goals

Your orthopedic surgeon will perform a thorough examination, review imaging studies, and explain whether your arthritis is confined to one area or spread throughout the knee. This assessment helps determine which approach will provide the best long-term benefit.

Expert Knee Care at T&P Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

T&P Orthopedics and Sports Medicine provides advanced joint replacement techniques, personalized treatment plans, and comprehensive follow-up care. Whether you are a candidate for a total or partial knee replacement, our team is committed to restoring mobility, reducing pain, and helping you return to the activities you love.

Elbow pain is a frustrating and common problem for athletes of all ages. Whether you throw, lift, swing, or perform repetitive motions, the elbow joint endures tremendous stress—and injuries can occur gradually or suddenly. At T&P Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, our team evaluates and treats the most frequent causes of elbow pain so athletes can recover quickly and return to peak performance.

Why Athletes Experience Elbow Pain

The elbow is a complex hinge joint formed by the humerus, ulna, and radius. It is supported by ligaments, tendons, and muscles that allow for powerful and precise movements. In sports, repetitive use and strain can irritate or damage these structures, leading to pain and dysfunction.

Common Causes of Elbow Pain in Athletes

1. Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, resulting in pain on the outer part of the elbow.
Common in: tennis players, pickleball athletes, weightlifters, and even non-athletes with repetitive gripping motions.

2. Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow.
Common in: golfers, baseball players, climbers, and athletes who perform repetitive wrist flexion.

3. UCL Injuries
The ulnar collateral ligament can be strained or torn from repetitive throwing motions.
Common in: baseball pitchers and overhead athletes.

4. Olecranon Bursitis
Swelling of the elbow’s bursa sac, caused by pressure, impact, or repetitive leaning on the elbow.

5. Elbow Tendon Strains
Overuse during lifting, gripping, or swinging can lead to tendon inflammation or microtears.

6. Nerve Entrapment (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome)
Compression of the ulnar nerve, leading to numbness, tingling, or loss of grip strength.

How Elbow Pain Is Diagnosed

A thorough evaluation includes:

• Medical history and symptom review

• Physical exam to assess strength, tenderness, and range of motion

• X-rays to check for bone issues

• MRI or ultrasound to evaluate soft tissues

Effective Treatment Options

Rest & Activity Modification
Reducing the movements that aggravate the injury is often the first step.

Physical Therapy
Strengthening and stretching exercises help restore mobility and prevent future injuries.

Bracing or Splinting
Supports injured tissues and reduces strain during healing.

Medications
Anti-inflammatory medications may help with pain and swelling.

Injections
Corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may reduce inflammation and promote healing for some conditions.

Surgery
For severe cases or ligament tears—such as UCL tears—surgical intervention may be recommended. Our orthopedic surgeons perform minimally invasive techniques whenever possible.

Preventing Elbow Injuries

Athletes can reduce the risk of elbow pain by:

• Warming up thoroughly before activity

• Strengthening forearm and upper-arm muscles

• Using proper form and technique

• Avoiding repetitive strain

• Allowing adequate recovery time

Get Back in the Game

Elbow pain shouldn’t keep you on the sidelines. Whether your symptoms are new or persistent, T&P Orthopedics and Sports Medicine offers comprehensive diagnostics and tailored treatment options to help you recover safely.

Schedule a consultation today to evaluate your elbow pain and start your path toward pain-free performance. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W Pennington, DO, our board-certified  surgeons specialize in orthopedic procedures in the Las Vegas area.

Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments,contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Shoulder injuries are common in sports, physical labor, and accidents, but two of the most misunderstood conditions are a dislocated shoulder and a torn labrum. While both can cause pain, weakness, and limited mobility, they are very different injuries that require different treatment approaches. Understanding how they differ is key to getting the right diagnosis and care. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W Pennington, DO, our board-certified  surgeons specialize in orthopedic procedures in the Las Vegas area.

What Is a Dislocated Shoulder?

A dislocated shoulder occurs when the upper arm bone (humerus) pops out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). This can happen from a fall, sports injury, or direct blow. Shoulder dislocations can be:

• Anterior: The most common type, where the humerus moves forward out of the socket.

• Posterior: Less common, often from seizures or electric shock.

• Inferior: Rare, with the arm forced downward.

Symptoms of a Dislocated Shoulder:

• Intense pain

• Visible deformity of the shoulder

• Inability to move the arm

• Swelling and bruising

• Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand

What Is a Torn Labrum?

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines and stabilizes the shoulder socket. A torn labrum happens when this cartilage is damaged, often from repetitive motion, overuse, or trauma. Types include:

• SLAP Tear (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior): Common in throwing athletes.

• Bankart Tear: Often linked with shoulder dislocation.

• Posterior Labral Tear: Less common, often from backward force on the shoulder.

Symptoms of a Torn Labrum:

• Deep, aching pain in the shoulder

• Clicking, popping, or grinding sensation

• Weakness or instability

• Pain with overhead movements

Key Differences Between the Two

• Cause: Dislocations are usually from sudden trauma; labral tears can be from trauma or overuse.

• Symptoms: Dislocations cause immediate, severe pain and deformity; labral tears cause more subtle, chronic pain.

• Treatment: Dislocations require urgent repositioning of the joint; labral tears often need physical therapy or surgery for repair.

When One Can Cause the Other

A shoulder dislocation can cause a labral tear, especially a Bankart tear. In these cases, both issues need to be addressed to prevent recurrent instability.

Contact Us

If you have shoulder pain or instability, an accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment. Contact our orthopedic team today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation.

Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments,contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

If shoulder pain keeps you awake at night, it could be more than just muscle strain—it may be a rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for a wide range of motion. Injuries to this structure are common, especially with age or repetitive overhead activities, and can cause pain that worsens at night. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W Pennington, DO, our board-certified  surgeons specialize in orthopedic procedures in the Las Vegas area.

Why Rotator Cuff Injuries Hurt More at Night

Several factors make nighttime pain worse:

• Lying on the injured shoulder increases pressure on inflamed tendons.

• Blood flow changes during rest can increase swelling.

• Lack of movement overnight can cause stiffness.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

• Repetitive overhead motions (throwing, painting, swimming)

• Heavy lifting

• Falling onto an outstretched arm

• Degeneration of tendons with age

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury

• Pain when lifting or lowering the arm

• Weakness in the shoulder

• Difficulty reaching behind the back

• Clicking or popping sounds during movement

• Night pain that disrupts sleep

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical:

• Rest and avoiding aggravating activities

• Ice therapy to reduce inflammation

• Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Corticosteroid injections for severe pain

Surgical:
If symptoms don’t improve with conservative treatment, surgical repair of the torn tendon may be needed. Arthroscopic surgery is common, using small incisions for faster recovery.

Prevention Tips

• Maintain good posture to reduce shoulder strain

• Warm up before physical activity

• Strengthen rotator cuff and upper back muscles

• Avoid repetitive overhead lifting without breaks

Contact Us

Shoulder pain at night can signal a more serious injury like a rotator cuff tear. Our orthopedic specialists can diagnose the cause and create a treatment plan to relieve your pain and restore function. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments,contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

When knee pain begins to interfere with your daily activities, it’s natural to start exploring surgical options. Two common procedures—knee replacement and knee arthroscopy—address knee issues differently. Understanding the differences between them can help you and your orthopedic surgeon choose the best approach for your needs. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W Pennington, DO, our board-certified  surgeons specialize in orthopedic procedures in the Las Vegas area.

What Is Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, is a major surgical procedure that involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components. This is typically recommended for severe arthritis or extensive joint damage that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments.

What Is Knee Arthroscopy?

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments are inserted through tiny incisions. Surgeons use this technique to diagnose and treat a variety of knee problems, including torn cartilage, loose bodies, and inflamed tissue.

Key Differences Between the Two Procedures

Invasiveness:

• Knee replacement is an open surgery with larger incisions and significant tissue alteration.

• Knee arthroscopy uses small incisions and causes minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.

Conditions Treated:

• Knee replacement: Severe osteoarthritis, extensive cartilage loss, advanced joint deformities.

• Knee arthroscopy: Meniscus tears, ligament injuries, cartilage damage, early arthritis.

Recovery Time:

• Knee replacement: 3–6 months for full recovery, with structured physical therapy.

• Knee arthroscopy: 2–6 weeks for most activities, though rehab may be longer for major repairs.

Durability of Results:

• Knee replacement: Long-lasting relief, typically 15–20 years.

• Knee arthroscopy: Relief depends on the underlying condition; may delay but not replace the need for joint replacement in some cases.

Which Procedure Is Right for You?

Factors influencing your choice include:

• Severity of joint damage

• Age and activity level

• Overall health

• Desired recovery timeline

Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate imaging, physical exam results, and your goals to recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Contact Us

If knee pain is affecting your quality of life, our orthopedic team can help you determine whether knee replacement or knee arthroscopy is the right solution. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments,contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Knee replacement surgery can dramatically improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore quality of life. However, the recovery process requires commitment to rehabilitation and patience as your body heals. Knowing what to expect after surgery can help you prepare and set realistic expectations. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W Pennington, DO, our board-certified  surgeons specialize in orthopedic procedures in the Las Vegas area.

Immediate Post-Surgery Period

After your knee replacement, you’ll spend time in a recovery area before being moved to your hospital room. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1–3 days, depending on their progress. You’ll begin gentle movement and physical therapy within 24 hours of surgery.

Weeks 1–2: Early Recovery at Home

• Use of assistive devices such as a walker or crutches

• Swelling, stiffness, and mild to moderate pain are common

• Focus on wound care, ice therapy, and gentle exercises prescribed by your physical therapist

• Short, frequent walks around the house to promote circulation

Weeks 3–6: Regaining Mobility

• Increased strength and range of motion through structured physical therapy

• Gradual reduction in pain medication

• Transition from walker to cane as balance improves

• Ability to perform more daily activities independently

Weeks 7–12: Building Strength

• Continued improvement in mobility and stamina

• Ability to walk longer distances without assistance

• Participation in low-impact activities like swimming or cycling (with your surgeon’s approval)

3–6 Months: Return to Normal Activities

• Most patients can resume driving (if the right leg was operated on, typically by 4–6 weeks)

• Return to work depends on job demands—sedentary jobs may resume in 4–6 weeks, physically demanding work may require 3 months or more

• Ongoing exercises to maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength

Long-Term Recovery Tips

• Stay active but avoid high-impact sports that could damage your artificial joint

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knee

• Follow your surgeon’s recommendations for follow-up visits and activity restrictions

Contact Us

Knee replacement recovery is a journey, but with the right care and dedication, you can regain mobility and enjoy an active lifestyle again. Contact our orthopedic team today to learn more about the recovery process and how we can support you every step of the way.

Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments,contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada