What we treat
The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body and is therefore vulnerable to wear and tear and injuries. The most common problems we treat are subacromial pain (impingement), wear and calcification in the shoulder's rotator cuff, frozen shoulder, dislocation and instability, injuries to the long tendon of the biceps, wear in the acromioclavicular joint, and osteoarthritis in the shoulder joint. In the elbow, we treat tennis elbow and loose bodies in the joint, among other things.
Most procedures are performed via arthroscopy through small incisions: rotator cuff repair, release of impingement, repair for instability, surgery on the long tendon of the biceps, capsular release for frozen shoulder, and procedures on the acromioclavicular joint. For advanced osteoarthritis, a shoulder replacement may be considered – anatomical when the rotator cuff is intact, reverse when it is damaged.
The first step is always a consultation and examination, often including an ultrasound or MRI, where it is decided whether surgery is the correct path or if a steroid injection, physiotherapy, or other treatment is sufficient. Many shoulder problems resolve without surgery.
How we can help
Leading experts in their field
The team
Leading specialists and outstanding service.
Prices
Consultation and procedures with the shoulder specialists at Klíníkin are covered under the agreement between the Reykjavík Medical Association and Icelandic Health Insurance (SÍ). With a referral from a physician, you pay a co-payment according to the Icelandic Health Insurance tariff, and Icelandic Health Insurance covers the remainder. You can also book a consultation directly, without a referral.
Pricing for self-paying patients is provided during the consultation. Further information on patient co-payments can be found on the Icelandic Health Insurance website: sjukra.is
Consultation and diagnosis. You book a consultation – with a referral from a doctor or on your own. A shoulder specialist examines you and reviews your medical imaging, usually an ultrasound or MRI.
Treatment decision. Together you decide if surgery is the right path or if a steroid injection and physiotherapy are sufficient. Detailed instructions prior to the procedure (fasting, medication, anaesthesia) will be available on My Pages, along with an appointment time a few days before the surgery.
Surgery and rehabilitation. Arthroscopic surgeries are outpatient procedures; after a joint replacement, you will stay one night on the ward. A sling is used for 3–4 weeks after tendon repair, none after decompression. Physiotherapy and follow-up with your doctor will follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
How long will I be away from work?
Do I need to wear a sling?
Does a frozen shoulder heal on its own?
Education on shoulders and elbows
Subacromial pain (impingement)
Rotator cuff tear
Calcium deposits in the rotator cuff
Rotator cuff tendinopathy
Frozen shoulder
Anterior shoulder dislocation
Injuries to and dislocation of the acromioclavicular joint
Acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis
Injuries to the long head of the biceps tendon
SLAP lesion of the long head of biceps
Scapular dyskinesis
Osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint
Tennis elbow
Loose bodies in the elbow joint
