Shoulder Treatments & Procedures
Your comprehensive guide to shoulder care—from conservative treatments to advanced surgical procedures performed by Dr. Gobezie at the Cleveland Shoulder Institute
This page serves as your central resource for understanding all available treatment options for shoulder and elbow conditions. Whether you're exploring non-surgical alternatives or considering surgery, use the links below to learn about specific procedures, view our patient outcomes data, and access educational resources.
The Cleveland Shoulder Institute provides comprehensive care for patients with all types of shoulder and elbow disorders resulting from traumatic injuries, arthritis, instabilities, rotator cuff tears, and sports-related injuries. Dr. Gobezie and his team take a patient-centered approach to treatment, carefully evaluating each case to determine the most appropriate course of action.
Our philosophy is to always consider non-surgical treatments first when appropriate. Many shoulder conditions can be effectively managed with conservative care, avoiding the need for surgery. When surgery is necessary, we utilize the latest minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time and optimize outcomes. Research consistently demonstrates that high-volume surgeons achieve better results—Dr. Gobezie performs more than 350 shoulder replacements and 400 arthroscopic procedures annually, making him one of the highest-volume shoulder specialists in the country.
If you're wondering whether it's time to consider surgical intervention, read our guide on how to know when it's time for a shoulder replacement.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Before recommending surgery, we explore all conservative treatment options that may help relieve your pain and restore function. Many patients experience significant improvement with non-surgical approaches, particularly when treatment begins early. A combination of these treatments often provides the best outcomes for shoulder conditions, and our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.
Conservative Treatment Options
- Physical Therapy and Exercise Programs
- Custom Bracing and Support
- Anti-inflammatory Pain Medications
- Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections
- Regenerative Treatments (Stem Cells or PRP)
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic Care
- Other Ultrasound-Guided Injections
Dr. Gobezie uses advanced ultrasound guidance for injections to ensure precise placement and maximum effectiveness. This technology allows for real-time visualization of the needle, resulting in more accurate delivery of medication to the affected area. Regenerative treatments including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy are also available for appropriate candidates, offering the potential to stimulate natural healing processes. Learn more about how stem cells can help stop pain.
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of both non-surgical treatment and post-operative recovery. Our physical therapy resources page provides videos and information about rehabilitation exercises and protocols. For a quick overview of essential movements, see the fabulous six shoulder exercises.
Surgical Procedures
When conservative treatments are not sufficient, Dr. Gobezie offers a full range of surgical options performed with the latest techniques and technology. His high surgical volume translates to refined skills, fewer complications, and better patient outcomes. For detailed surgical videos and educational animations, visit our Patient Education page or browse our complete video library.
Arthroscopic Surgery
Considering outpatient surgery? Learn about the benefits of outpatient surgery and why many patients prefer recovering at home. Dr. Gobezie was among the first surgeons in the country to offer outpatient shoulder replacement surgery.
Superior Capsular Reconstruction (SCR)
Superior Capsular Reconstruction is an innovative surgical technique designed to address massive irreparable rotator cuff tears—tears that are too large or too retracted to repair directly. This procedure works by anatomically replacing the superior capsule of the shoulder, which helps reduce superior humeral translation (upward migration of the ball) and improves overall shoulder mechanics.
SCR is an excellent option for patients who want to preserve their native shoulder joint and avoid or delay shoulder replacement surgery. By restoring the stability and kinematics of the shoulder, patients can regain functional range of motion and strength. Dr. Gobezie was an early adopter of this technique and has extensive experience with SCR procedures. For more about treatment options for severe rotator cuff damage, read is there hope for an irreparable rotator cuff tear.
Watch SCR Animation VideoView Our Patient Outcomes
Dr. Gobezie is committed to measuring and improving patient outcomes through systematic data collection. We track every patient's progress using validated, standardized questionnaires before surgery and at regular intervals afterward. This evidence-based approach allows us to quantify results and continuously refine our techniques. View detailed outcome data for specific procedures:
Our Approach to Surgical Care
Dr. Gobezie is committed to utilizing the most advanced surgical techniques and technology available. Learn about how implant quality impacts shoulder surgery outcomes—the materials and design of your implant can significantly affect long-term results.
- Minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques
- Computer-assisted surgical navigation
- Patient-specific 3D surgical planning
- Latest generation implant systems
- Outpatient shoulder replacement surgery
- Accelerated rehabilitation protocols
Dr. Gobezie's extensive experience with shoulder procedures, combined with his commitment to innovation and outcomes tracking, ensures that patients receive the highest quality surgical care available. His research contributions and teaching activities keep him at the forefront of shoulder surgery advancements.
After surgery, proper post-operative care is essential for optimal recovery. Review our guide on post-operative care after shoulder surgery to understand what to expect during your recovery journey.
Find the Right Treatment for Your Condition
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gobezie to discuss your shoulder condition and explore all available treatment options, from conservative care to advanced surgical procedures.
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