FAQs About Shoulder and Elbow Medical Procedures

Answers you can trust from experienced, New York orthopedic surgeons

Looking for accurate information about shoulder and elbow injuries? Not sure who to trust? Find the knowledge you need to make decisions that matter. Read more about shoulder and elbow medical procedures written by surgeons with extensive, hands-on experience. And schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified, fellowship-trained doctors at Island Musculoskeletal Care (IMC Bone Doc) in greater New York City.

Our doctors have an outstanding reputation for providing high-quality medical care for patients throughout New York City and Long Island. Our surgeons have the answers because we have more than 100 years of combined medical experience. There’s no substitute for this surgical work. No replacement for success.

Information is power. Learn more about what we can do for you. Contact us. Many of our surgeons have immediate appointments available – including many same day appointments – at our seven, offices. If possible, we will do everything we can to treat your shoulder or elbow injury at the same, office location. Contact us online or call us.

What is your question about shoulder or elbow injury medical procedures?

Don’t see your question listed below? Don’t worry. Medical procedures vary from one person to another. That’s why it’s always best to discuss your specific injury with an experienced shoulder and elbow surgeon. They can evaluate you, explain different treatment options and help you decide which approach makes the most sense for you. We also have extensive experience with pain management when it comes to shoulder or elbow injuries. You can count on us.

How do I know if I need shoulder or elbow surgery?

The best way to know for sure if you need elbow or shoulder surgery is to have an experienced, orthopedic surgeon examine you and diagnose exactly what’s wrong. Your examination at IMC Bone Doc will be tailor made based on your specific symptoms. We also use state-of-the-art equipment to determine exactly what’s wrong with your elbow or shoulder. You can count on us.

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How do I know if I need shoulder or elbow replacement surgery?

There are many different medical procedures used to treat your specific shoulder or elbow injury. Some shoulder and elbow medical procedures are non-surgical. In many cases, the best way to relieve the pain in your elbow or shoulder is to have an experienced orthopedic surgeon operate on you. One of our surgeons can thoroughly examine you and help you decide if you’re a suitable candidate for surgery.

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What are the warning signs that I need shoulder or elbow surgery?

Severe, constant pain in your elbow or shoulder is often a warning sign that something’s wrong with that part of your body. Difficulty moving your shoulder or elbow is another common symptom that something’s wrong. Other symptoms of a serious shoulder or elbow injury which requires surgery include decreased flexibility, difficulty lifting objects with the injured arm and swelling or bruising around the injured area.

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What is the average age when someone undergoes shoulder or elbow surgery?

Every person is different but, in many cases, adults over 65 years old are often the most likely people to undergo elbow or shoulder surgery. Younger adults or children may also require an operation to correct an injury or illness affecting their shoulder or elbow. This is especially true for athletic children and adults who injury their arm or shoulder playing sports or while engaging in other, physical activities.

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How long does it normally take to recover from shoulder or elbow surgery?

Recovery times vary widely depending on what type of surgical procedure you had done on your elbow or shoulder. You may only need a few weeks to recover. Or you may need several months to regain full use of your shoulder or elbow. In general, many patients who undergo shoulder or elbow surgery need roughly six weeks for their surgically repaired elbow or shoulder to fully heal.

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What is the average cost of shoulder or elbow replacement surgery?

The total cost of elbow or shoulder replacement surgery will depend on a number of factors, including:

  • Which procedure was performed
  • Whether you had to stay overnight in a hospital
  • The length of your hospital stay
  • Amount of physical therapy after operation

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Who will pay for my shoulder or elbow surgery?

In many cases, your surgical procedure may be covered by your health insurance. Our medical clinic is in network and accepts many forms of insurance. You can find a complete list of insurances accepted by us on our website. If you injured your elbow or shoulder on the job, odds are your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance will cover your medical bills associated with your surgical procedure.

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Does my medical insurance cover shoulder or elbow surgery?

In many cases, yes, your medical insurance will cover the cost of your surgical procedure to repair or replace your injured shoulder or elbow. Our medical practice is in network and accepted by most major insurance providers. If you are not sure about your health coverage, one of our experienced staff members at IMC Bone Doc can help you contact your insurance provider to verify whether your surgical procedure will be covered by your health insurance. Our employees have years of experience doing this work and know exactly what questions to ask and which information insurance companies often need to process these requests.

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Does workers’ compensation cover shoulder or elbow surgery?

If you hurt your shoulder or elbow at work while doing your job, your surgical procedure may be covered by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. Most employers in New York have workers’ compensation insurance coverage. It is always important to check with your employer. Or you can simply ask one of our staff members at IMC Bone Doc to contact your employer. We have years of experience dealing with insurance providers and workers’ compensation claims. The bottom line is we want to help you get the medical care you need and deserve for your injured shoulder or elbow.

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