Dr Howard Marans on shoulder impingement surgery cost





Prior to shoulder impingement surgery, other treatments may be used to reduce symptoms while alleviating pain. The costs of these non-surgical methods will slowly add up over a period of time, which will continue to raise the total of the overall medical expenses.
 
•  Rest may seem like a free approach to a non-surgical treatment option. However, if the patient is required to spend time resting. Work and other routine activities may have to be delayed or eliminated which can result in loss of wages.
 
•  Use of braces may help ease the pain while resting the arm and shoulder to promote healing. The brace is usually under $100. The cost is relatively low for the actually brace. However, limiting the range of motion can decrease activity which may result in having to take time off work.
 
•  Physical therapy sessions may be required. Depending on the severity of the shoulder injury, physical therapy may last weeks. The sessions can help reduce the progression of symptoms through a variety of exercises. Prior to beginning physical therapy, the patient may be required to have an ultrasound to verify the damaged area. The ultrasound and physical therapy session can be costly.
 
•  Over the counter and prescription drugs may be used to reduce inflammation and pain. In the beginning, the pain relievers may be a low cost option. Over time the costs will continue add up.
 
•  Cortisone or other type of steroid injection may help in reducing the symptoms of the shoulder impingement. The injection can reduce the inflammation and irritation, which may feel like a quick fix.