Accessibility Tools

Shoulder Conditions

Pain in the shoulder may suggest an injury. The injuries are caused due to the overuse or repetitive motion of the arms. In addition to pain, shoulder injuries also cause stiffness, restricted movements, difficulty in performing routine activities, and popping sensation. Learn more about the various conditions affecting your shoulder.

Sports
  • Shoulder Replacement

    Shoulder replacement is a surgical procedure where the damaged parts of your shoulder are removed and replaced with artificial parts known as prostheses. The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones; the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). The ball at the top of the upper arm bone fits neatly into a socket, called the glenoid, which is part of the shoulder blade.

  • Rotator Cuff Repair

    The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles in the shoulder joint including the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles originate in the scapula and attach to the head of the humerus through tendons. The rotator cuff forms a sleeve around the humeral head and glenoid cavity, providing stability to the shoulder joint while enabling a wide range of movements.

  • Shoulder Instability

    Shoulder instability is a chronic condition that causes frequent dislocation of the shoulder joint. A dislocation occurs when the end of the humerus (ball portion) partially or completely dislocates from the glenoid (socket portion) of the shoulder. A partial dislocation is referred to as a subluxation whereas a complete separation is referred to as a dislocation.

  • Shoulder Fractures

    The shoulder is the most flexible joint in the body, enabling a wide range of movements. It is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones, namely the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade) and clavicle. The head of the humerus articulates with the socket of the scapula called the glenoid cavity. The clavicle bone or collarbone is an S-shaped bone that connects the scapula to the sternum or breastbone.

  • AC Joint Separation

    AC joint separation, also known as shoulder separation, is a condition characterized by damage to the ligaments that connect the acromion to the collar bone. As a result, the bones do not line up properly, causing joint pain and instability. Diagnosis can be made based on discussion of your symptoms and a physical examination of the shoulder. A shoulder X-ray may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis of AC joint separation.

About
Dr. Kirsch
Orthopedic SurgeonShoulder & Elbow Specialist
Jacob M. Kirsch, M.D.

Dr. Jacob Kirsch is a shoulder and elbow surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive (arthroscopic) and open treatment of shoulder and elbow conditions, including shoulder arthritis, rotator cuff tears, fractures, and instability. He has advanced training in shoulder replacement surgery, which he performs at the nationally recognized New England Baptist Hospital. He is particularly interested in complex problems of the shoulder requiring shoulder replacement, sports-related injuries, shoulder instability with bone loss, irreparable tendon tears, and failed previous surgery.

Jacob M. Kirsch, M.D.
Patient Testimonials
  • Poor
    Good
    Satisfactory
    Best
    Excellent

    I cannot say enough good things about Boston sports and shoulder and Dr. Kirsch. They are always on time, extremely courteous and helpful. Dr. Kirsch is the ultimate professional and fantastic surgeon. Performed a reverse shoulder operation on me six weeks ago and I’ve never felt better! He takes the time to listen and gives great advice. I lived with shoulder pain for years and wish I had this done earlier. Thank you Dr. Kirsch!

  • Poor
    Good
    Satisfactory
    Best
    Excellent

    I suffered a fall and immediately went to Urgent Care. I had an X-ray and was told I needed surgery to mend a fractured shoulder. Two days later I was very fortunate to meet with Dr Kirsch. After looking at my X-rays he told me I definitely did not need surgery. I am 81 years old. I cried when I heard the good news. My fracture healed completely. Dr Kirsch is truly a wonderful, kind and compassionate doctor.

  • Poor
    Good
    Satisfactory
    Best
    Excellent

    My shoulder was replaced successfully by Dr. Kirsch and I am so pleased with him as a surgeon and he listened and answers all my questions. I have recommended him to many people.

  • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
  • 
American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons
  • New England Shoulder and Elbow Society
  • Boston Sports & Shoulder Center
  • Tufts University