Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder | CAM Procedure | Treatment for Arthritis

33 Years Old with Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder. Do I Have any Options at this Age?

Hi Dr. Millett,

I have osteoarthritis of the shoulder. I am only 33 years old and the condition set in after a shoulder injury. I had surgery on it but am told I have little joint space. I am still in a lot of pain with less range of motion, zero degrees of external rotation and I can only raise my shoulder to chest level. I am a keen sportsman, and need something to help me that will also let me be active, with no restrictions. Is there any procedure that can give me my life back, and let me be active again?

Thanks,
Anonymous

Hi There,

You have a tough problem, but one that we have been focused on for many years. Osteoarthritis of the shoulder is a complex problem that involves damage to the cartilage, joint capsule and the bone. It is something I deal with on a daily basis in my practice. Many of my patients are young and active, like you, and desire a joint-preserving treatment that will allow them to stay active and put off the need for a joint replacement. We have recently developed a procedure called a CAM procedure (CAM is an acronym for Comprehensive Arthroscopic Management). This procedure has been validated over the last few years in a research study that is published in the journal Arthroscopy. The editors of the journal described this procedure as “amazingly innovative” and this has also been featured in Orthopaedics this week.

The CAM procedure is a minimally-invasive arthroscopic procedure that not only removes loose cartilage and restores mobility, but also decreases pain by decompressing the axillary nerve which can become entrapped by the bone spurs (osteophytes) that occur as part of the arthritic process. This procedure effectively helps to alleviate pain and restore function, while delaying the need for joint replacement surgery.

Recovery typically takes 3-4 months and results now show improvement for up to 5 years out. Ongoing research is underway to see just how long the effects last and how durable the procedure is. For more information please read all of my articles and studies.

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

What are my Treatment Options for Shoulder Osteoarthritis?

33 Years Old with Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder. Do I Have any Options at this Age?

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD

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