Shoulder Surgeon in Kirkland, WA

Expert Shoulder Surgeon Helping Patients from Seattle, Kirkland, Bellevue, and the Surrounding Area

Shoulder surgeon Samuel Koo is committed to providing patients in Seattle with innovative approaches to any type of shoulder problem or pain. Because every patient is different, Dr. Koo’s treatments are tailored to each patient individually. With a special interest in minimizing the impact of shoulder surgery on his patients and their lives, Dr. Koo’s surgical techniques are often minimally invasive. Pain and functional limitations that have been historically associated with shoulder surgery are dramatically reduced with our state-of-the-art arthroscopic and shoulder replacement surgery options.

Having trained with Dr. Stephen Burkhart, a world-renowned shoulder surgeon, Dr. Koo is equipped with the skills necessary to tackle even the most difficult problems. This section provides information of common shoulder problems and some of the treatments offered by doctor Samuel Koo. With an office in Kirkland, WA our team is conveniently located to patients living throughout the Seattle metro area including Bellevue, Redmond, and Bothell.

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What is the Shoulder?

The shoulder is one of the most complex and versatile joints in the body. It is composed of three bones (see right image: clavicle, scapula, and glenoid) and comprises three separate joints. It is a highly mobile and functional joints. In addition, the shoulder is also one of the most commonly injured joints. Common problems in the shoulder joint include frozen shoulder syndrome, rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, labral tears, biceps tendon tears, shoulder dislocations, and arthritis. Fortunately, the great majority of shoulder problems do not require surgery. In fact, over 90% of patients presenting with complaints in the shoulder are successfully managed with medical management and specialized physical therapy.

When conservative interventions fail, arthroscopic and arthroscopic assisted methods handle all but the most severe and complex problems of the shoulder.

What Shoulder Conditions and Procedures does Dr. Koo Specialize in?

Shoulder and elbow pain are extremely common and have many underlying issues because we use our arms for so many activities. Injuries to the shoulder and elbow can occur from overuse, age, or trauma. An injury to the shoulder or elbow can make everyday tasks such as lifting, throwing, and carrying objects painful, difficult or even impossible. Left untreated, the damage can become worse and lead to long-term loss of function. Dr. Koo has specific expertise in a broad spectrum of shoulder, and upper extremity problems, and employs the latest in surgical and non-surgical techniques to treat them.

When Should You Consider Shoulder Surgery?

Shoulder surgery requires careful thought and planning by doctor Samuel Koo. However, for those who’ve exhausted other treatment options, it can be the best way to restore range of motion, relieve pain and help you return to an active lifestyle.

Understanding the source and nature of your shoulder pain will allow shoulder specialist Dr. Koo to recommend the right procedure. Depending on the severity and type of condition, there are many types of shoulder surgeries performed by Dr. Samuel Koo to get you back to a normal way of life. Many different shoulder conditions can lead to the severe pain and joint degeneration. When this happens, it necessitates a shoulder replacement, including various types of arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis), serious fractures, or a combination of muscle tears and arthritis (such as rotator cuff tear arthropathy).