Lakeside Physicians Orthopedic Surgery - Shoulder Injuries: Rotator Cuff Tears & Frozen Shoulder

12/8/2025

Shoulder pain is a frequent complaint that brings patients to an orthopedic surgeon. The shoulder is a highly mobile joint, which makes it more vulnerable to injury. Two of the most common issues are rotator cuff tears and frozen shoulder.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that hold the shoulder in place and allow you to lift and rotate your arm. Tears may result from a sudden injury, such as lifting something heavy, or develop gradually from repetitive use. Patients often notice weakness, pain when lifting the arm and difficulty sleeping on the affected side.

Dr. Cody Hartshorn, orthopedic surgeon with Lakeside Physicians, explains, “Rotator cuff injuries are common in both athletes and people who do overhead work. Not every tear requires surgery. Some respond well to physical therapy, steroid injections and rest, while others may require minimally invasive repair.”

Frozen Shoulder

Also known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder causes stiffness, pain and reduced range of motion. It typically develops gradually, often after an injury or period of immobilization, and can take months to resolve.

Dr. Corey Mark, orthopedic surgeon at Lakeside Physicians, notes, “Frozen shoulder can be very frustrating for patients. Conservative treatment with physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication and sometimes injections usually leads to improvement, but in rare cases, a minor surgical procedure may be needed.”

Conservative vs. Surgical Treatment

Conservative care may include rest, physical therapy, medications and injections. Surgical care is considered for persistent pain, weakness or limited mobility that does not improve with therapy. Arthroscopic surgery is often effective for rotator cuff tears.

In Granbury, Glen Rose and Stephenville, shoulder injuries are especially common among ranchers, construction workers and athletes. Early evaluation helps prevent long-term complications and allows patients to return to work or sports sooner.

Dr. Hartshorn adds, “The key is early intervention. If we can see patients when symptoms first appear, they often avoid more complex procedures.”

When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon

Seek care if you have:

• Persistent shoulder pain or weakness
• Difficulty lifting your arm
• Pain that disrupts sleep
• Stiffness lasting several weeks

Shoulder injuries don’t have to keep you from living your life. With proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients regain function and return to their daily activities.

Appointments with Dr. Cody Hartshorn or Dr. Corey Mark at Lakeside Physicians can be made by calling (817) 579-2020.

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