false

Shoulder Care

Whether you're experiencing arthritis pain, a sports injury like a rotator cuff tear, or another debilitating shoulder condition, our specialists provide advanced therapy, surgery, and rehabilitation to get you back to doing what you love.

Clinician assisting man with shoulder exercise.

full-fill

primary
phone
857-282-3300
8572823300

Shoulder pain and injury care in New England

As one of the nation's leading healthcare systems, Mass General Brigham provides orthopedic shoulder care that reflects our commitment to excellence, innovation, and compassion. Our world-renowned shoulder experts treat everything from common sports injuries to the most complex shoulder and scapula (shoulder blade) disorders.

Our scapula program is one of only a few in the world dedicated to diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the shoulder blade and surrounding structures, helping patients recover mobility and strength after traumatic injury or chronic pain.

center
tertiary
internal-arrow
Part of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
/content/unified-xwalk/en/services/orthopedics

Our approach to shoulder care

Mass General Brigham provides specialized care for shoulder conditions, combining advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise, and personalized rehabilitation to restore strength and mobility.
An older male doctor in a white lab coat speaks with a patient in a clinical setting.
Specialized shoulder expertise
Our team treats a wide range of shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff injuries, instability, arthritis, and fractures.
Advanced repair and replacement options
We offer both non-surgical treatments and surgical options, including repair and replacement procedures when needed.
Sports and overuse injury treatment
For sports-related and overuse injuries, our orthopedic team offers both non-surgical and minimally invasive procedures to restore stability and function.
Personalized rehabilitation planning
Rehabilitation plans are tailored to restore strength, improve mobility, and support return to daily activities and sports.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of doctor looks at your shoulder?
At Mass General Brigham, shoulder care is provided by orthopedic specialists. These are doctors trained to diagnose and treat the full range of shoulder problems. Depending on your needs, you may also work with sports medicine physicians, physical therapists, or rehabilitation experts as part of your integrated care team.
When should I see a shoulder specialist?
You should see a shoulder specialist if pain or stiffness limits your daily activities, lasts more than a few weeks, or returns after rest and home care. To schedule an appointment, call 857-282-3300.
How do you treat a shoulder injury?
Mass General Brigham offers a full range of orthopedic shoulder treatments, from physical therapy, medication, and injections to advanced surgery and rehabilitation. Your care plan is personalized to your needs and delivered through our integrated system, so every step of your recovery is coordinated to help you return to the activities you love.
How do I know if my shoulder is torn or strained?
It can be hard to tell the difference on your own. At Mass General Brigham, diagnosing a shoulder injury begins with a physical exam and a review of your symptoms. Your shoulder specialist may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to better understand the cause of your shoulder pain and create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Do I need a referral to see a shoulder specialist?
In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a shoulder specialist. Some insurance plans may require one, so it’s a good idea to check your coverage before scheduling.

Orthopedic and sports medicine care near you

Our services are available across Boston and New England, including clinic, walk-in, and rehabilitation settings, making it easier to get the care you need.
A simplified map shows the eastern region of Massachusetts with several highlighted points.
secondary
internal
View shoulder care locations
/content/unified-xwalk/en/search/locations/results#specialties.specialty:Shoulder%20and%20Elbow%20Orthopedic%20Surgery

Orthopedic research

Our research is shaping the future of orthopedic care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
Doctors reviewing spinal X-rays on computer monitor.
tertiary
external
Explore our orthopedics research
https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/orthopedics-department-research

Contact Orthopedics

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
primary
phone
857-282-3300
8572823300
secondary
internal
International Patient Services

Contact information for international patients

/content/unified-xwalk/en/patients-visitors/international/for-patients/contact