Houston Shoulder Surgery & Specialist Care

Most shoulder problems improve without surgery. We typically recommend surgery when pain limits sleep or daily activities, when weakness or loss of motion does not improve with several weeks to months of appropriate therapy, or when imaging shows a structural injury that is unlikely to heal on its own (such as a full-thickness rotator cuff tear, a labral tear causing instability, or advanced arthritis).

Not always. Many diagnoses can be made with a careful history, physical exam, and X-rays. We order MRI only when it will meaningfully change the treatment plan. If you have already had an MRI elsewhere, please bring the disc or images to your appointment.

Most patients wear a sling for about six weeks, regain motion over three months, and continue strengthening through six months. Return to most work and recreational activity is typical between four and six months, depending on tear size and physical demands.

Surgery is performed at hospitals and surgery centers in Houston affiliated with UTHealth Houston and Memorial Hermann, including outpatient ambulatory surgery centers convenient to the Memorial and Texas Medical Center offices.

For appropriate candidates, yes. Modern anatomic and reverse shoulder replacements can often be performed as same-day surgery with a structured pre-operative and pain control protocol. Dr. Gregory has helped lead national work on outpatient shoulder arthroplasty pathways.

Appointments are scheduled through the UTHealth Houston office at 713-486-1700. The practice has offices in Memorial Villages and the Texas Medical Center.

Physical therapy is an essential part of recovery for nearly every shoulder procedure. We provide procedure-specific protocols, work closely with therapists across the Houston area, and offer guided home programs when appropriate.