Specialized Care for Shoulder Pain, Weakness and Instability

Shoulder pain can make it difficult to lift, reach, work, sleep, or perform everyday activities. Holy Cross Medical Center provides access to experienced orthopedic surgeons who diagnose and treat shoulder arthritis, rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, instability, and other conditions affecting movement and strength.

Treatment options include non-surgical care, arthroscopic procedures, tendon and labral repair, and shoulder replacement. When surgery is appropriate, procedures are performed here in Taos at Holy Cross Hospital.

Shoulder Conditions and Services

Shoulder problems may result from an injury, arthritis, repetitive activity, instability, or gradual degeneration of the joint and surrounding tissues.

Shoulder services include:

• Shoulder replacement
• Rotator cuff repair
• Labral repair
• Shoulder instability treatment
• Arthroscopic shoulder surgery
• Treatment of sports-related shoulder injuries
• Care for degenerative shoulder conditions
• Shoulder arthritis treatment
• Tendon and soft tissue repair
• Non-surgical treatment and rehabilitation planning

Rotator Cuff Repair

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that helps stabilize and move the shoulder. A rotator cuff injury may cause pain, weakness, difficulty lifting the arm, or discomfort at night.

Treatment depends on the size and location of the tear, the patient’s symptoms, and how the injury affects daily activities. Options may include physical therapy, activity modification, medication, injections, or surgical repair.

Labral Repair and Shoulder Instability

The labrum is a ring of tissue that helps stabilize the shoulder joint. A labral injury may cause pain, catching, weakness, or repeated dislocations.

Treatment may include rehabilitation to improve strength and stability. When surgery is appropriate, arthroscopic techniques may be used to repair damaged tissue and stabilize the shoulder.

Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and specialized instruments to examine and treat certain conditions within the joint.

Depending on the condition, arthroscopy may be used for:

• Rotator cuff repair
• Labral repair
• Shoulder instability
• Cartilage injuries
• Inflamed or damaged tissue
• Other causes of persistent pain or limited movement

Your surgeon will determine whether arthroscopy or another treatment approach is appropriate.

Shoulder Replacement

Shoulder replacement may be considered when severe arthritis or joint damage causes persistent pain, stiffness, weakness, or loss of movement that has not improved with conservative treatment.

During shoulder replacement, damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components designed to improve movement and reduce pain. Your surgeon will evaluate the condition of the joint and discuss whether replacement or another treatment is appropriate.

Non-Surgical Shoulder Care

Shoulder treatment does not always require surgery. Depending on the condition, conservative care may include:

• Activity modification
• Medication
• Therapeutic injections
• Physical therapy
• Strength and mobility exercises
• Rehabilitation planning

Surgery may be considered when an injury requires repair or when non-surgical treatment has not provided sufficient relief.

Meet the Shoulder Surgeons

Aaron Black, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Aaron Black is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience in knee care, cartilage restoration, fracture treatment, and athletic injury management. He combines surgical and non-surgical treatment options with individualized planning based on each patient’s condition, goals, and activity level.

Learn more about Aaron Black, MD

Sean Marvil, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Sean Marvil is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in conditions affecting the knee, hip, and shoulder. He treats injuries, arthritis, and degenerative conditions using advanced surgical techniques and individualized treatment planning. His approach focuses on restoring mobility, improving function, and helping patients return to daily life.

Learn more about Sean Marvil, MD

Dan Guttmann, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Dan Guttmann is the medical director of the orthopedic service line and has more than 25 years of experience serving Northern New Mexico. Fellowship trained in adult reconstructive surgery, his expertise includes primary and revision joint replacement, reconstructive care, and treatment designed to help patients maintain mobility and active lifestyles.

Learn more about Dan Guttmann, MD

Why Choose Holy Cross for Shoulder Care?

• Experienced, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons
• Shoulder replacement and reconstructive care
• Arthroscopic and minimally invasive procedures
• Rotator cuff and labral repair
• Shoulder instability treatment
• Surgical and non-surgical care
• Individualized treatment planning
• Clinic appointments and surgery available in Taos
• Surgery performed at Holy Cross Hospital

Orthopedic services at Holy Cross Medical Center are provided through an independent medical practice under contract.

What to Expect

Your first appointment will focus on your symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, and goals. Your surgeon may review existing imaging or recommend additional diagnostic testing.

Treatment does not always require surgery. If surgery is recommended, your surgeon will explain the procedure, recovery process, potential benefits, and possible risks so you can make an informed decision.

Most patients do not need a referral, but requirements vary by insurance plan. If you are unsure, call 1-888-758-0009 to confirm whether your plan requires one.

Schedule a Shoulder Evaluation

You do not have to let persistent shoulder pain keep you from the activities that matter to you. Schedule an evaluation to learn more about your condition and the surgical and non-surgical treatment options available in Taos.

Orthopedic services at Holy Cross Medical Center are provided by independent medical practices under contract with Holy Cross Medical Center.