Shoulder Specialist in Singapore with 15+ Years Experience

If your pain is the result of an injury

Shoulder pain can be a long-term problem. Simpler shoulder strains should resolve completely with rest and simple analgesia. A correct diagnosis will ensure you receive the right treatment and be on the road to recovery and function.

Instability or Reduced Range of Motion

Reduced range of motion can be related to inflammation in the shoulder, as well as other structural injuries. If you have limited range of motion that does not begin to improve within a few days, you should contact your doctor. On the other hand, if a shoulder feels “loose”, “shifts abnormally” or has “painful clicks” after an injury, it could mean a torn stabilising structure in the shoulder. A consult with your doctor is likely to be beneficial.

Prolonged Symptoms

Is your shoulder stiff? Does it feel like your shoulder could pop out or slide out of the socket? Do you lack the strength in your shoulder to carry out your daily activities? If you experience any of the above for prolonged periods, you should consider seeing a specialist.

Is My Shoulder Pain Serious Enough For A Visit To A Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon?

When your shoulder pain becomes more persistent, the treatment options may be beyond your GP’s expertise.

You should seek specialist medical advice from an orthopaedic surgeon if you experience any of the following:

• Pain or swelling that lasts more than 48 hours
• Loss of range-of-motion in your shoulder
• Instability or weakness when carrying weights
• Inability to wear clothes without assistance
• Any obvious deformity in your shoulder
• A fever, in addition to redness, pain and swelling in your shoulder

If your shoulder pain is affecting your quality of life and you cannot perform everyday activities (such as working, playing sports and wearing your clothes), it is highly advisable to see an orthopaedic surgeon for a detailed diagnosis and advice.

Can I Continue My Sporting Activities If I Am Experiencing Shoulder Pain?

Dr. Ong always advises patients to listen to their bodies and not push through the pain barrier. If your pain does not subside with RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) and over-the-counter painkillers, it is highly advisable that you seek professional medical advice. Continuing with sporting activities will place additional strain on your shoulder and worsen the condition.

What Can I Expect At My First Visit With An Orthopaedic Surgeon?

At your first appointment with Dr. Ong, he will evaluate your medical history and the pain you are experiencing.

Depending on the symptoms you have, he will likely perform some form of diagnostic imaging (e.g. X-Rays or MRI scans) to assess your condition accurately. X-rays and CT scans are useful to rule out bony problems, whilst an MRI scan is excellent at looking at soft tissue (e.g. tendons, ligaments, cartilage) problems.

After assessing your condition, Dr. Ong will recommend a personalised treatment plan, according to your specific needs. This may include surgical or non-surgical treatment options.

Will I Need Surgery To Treat My Shoulder Pain?

After diagnosis, Dr. Ong will advise an individualised treatment plan that is customized to your specific needs. The treatment plan varies from patient to patient, and the condition you have.

For less severe problems, Dr. Ong may recommend a non-surgical management plan (such as painkillers and physiotherapy) to treat your condition initially. If your symptoms do not improve or even worsen over the course of this treatment, Dr. Ong will review the treatment protocol and may advise surgery.

Dr. Ong will only recommend surgical options when all other conventional non-surgical interventions have failed, or if non-surgical options will not work for your condition. For example, if you have a broken bone which is extremely painful and debilitating, you may benefit from immediate surgery.

What Modes Of Payments Do You Accept?

Consultation fees are charged based on length of consultation, and start from SGD$200 (within 30 minutes).

We accept the following modes of payment:

• Cash
• PAYNOW & PAYLAH
• All major Credit Cards

If you are insured and would like to use E-Filing or A Letter of Guarantee (LOG) from the major insurers in Singapore, please contact us, our friendly clinic staff will assist you and provide more information if required.

Can I Claim Through My Medisave Account?

Yes, you can. Our Clinic is an accredited day surgery clinic by the Ministry of Health. Singaporeans and Permanent Residents may use their Medisave for certain procedures done in the clinic.