Non-Surgical Shoulder Treatment with Dr. Brian Butzen in Durango, Colorado

Shoulder pain can make even the simplest tasks, like reaching for a cup of coffee or putting on a jacket, feel impossible. For residents of Durango, Colorado, and the surrounding Four Corners region, relief doesn’t always mean surgery. Dr. Brian Butzen, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with over a decade of experience, specializes in non-surgical shoulder treatments.

Since 2013, Dr. Butzen has been helping patients in Durango, Farmington, Pagosa Springs, and Cortez manage shoulder pain with personalized, non-operative care. Whether you’re an athlete recovering from an injury or someone dealing with arthritis, Dr. Butzen’s expertise ensures you receive the right treatment to get back to your life.

What Causes Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain can arise from a variety of conditions, including:

  • Shoulder arthritis: A degenerative condition that wears down the cartilage in the shoulder joint.

  • Rotator cuff injuries: Tears or inflammation in the tendons that stabilize the shoulder.

  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the shoulder joint.

  • Tendonitis: Irritation or inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder.

  • Frozen shoulder: A condition that causes stiffness and limited range of motion.

Regardless of the cause, non-surgical shoulder treatments can often provide significant relief without the need for invasive procedures.

Non-Surgical Shoulder Treatments Offered by Dr. Butzen

Dr. Butzen offers a range of non-operative solutions to address shoulder pain. Each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s specific condition, lifestyle, and goals.

1. Shoulder Injections

Shoulder injections are an effective way to reduce pain and inflammation. Common options include:

  • Corticosteroid injections: Quickly reduce inflammation, especially for arthritis or bursitis.

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: Uses your own blood to stimulate healing in damaged tissues.

Dr. Butzen has extensive experience with shoulder injections, ensuring precise placement for maximum relief.

2. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of non-surgical shoulder treatment. Dr. Butzen works closely with local physical therapists in Durango and the surrounding areas to create customized rehabilitation plans. Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint can improve stability and reduce pain.

3. Activity Modification

Sometimes, small changes in how you use your shoulder can make a big difference. Dr. Butzen provides guidance on modifying activities to prevent further damage while maintaining your quality of life.

4. Medications

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can help manage shoulder pain. For more severe cases, Dr. Butzen may recommend prescription options.

When to Seek Non-Surgical Shoulder Treatment

Non-surgical shoulder treatment may be a good option if you are experiencing:

  • Persistent shoulder pain that limits your daily activities.

  • Difficulty lifting your arm or reaching overhead.

  • Pain that worsens with certain movements or activities.

  • A diagnosis of arthritis, tendonitis, or a rotator cuff injury.

Dr. Butzen will evaluate your condition and recommend the best course of action. In many cases, non-surgical treatments can provide significant relief without the need for surgery.

Why Choose Dr. Brian Butzen for Shoulder Pain Treatment?

Local Expertise

Dr. Butzen has been serving the Durango community since 2013. His deep understanding of the area’s active lifestyle—whether it’s skiing at Purgatory Resort or hiking in the San Juan Mountains—allows him to tailor treatments to each patient’s needs.

Advanced Training

Dr. Butzen is fellowship-trained in upper extremity surgery, giving him a unique perspective on shoulder conditions. His expertise extends beyond surgery to include innovative non-surgical treatments like PRP therapy.

Patient-Focused Care

Patients consistently praise Dr. Butzen’s compassionate approach and ability to explain complex conditions in simple terms. One patient from Pagosa Springs shared, “Dr. Butzen took the time to listen to my concerns and recommended a treatment plan that worked perfectly. I’m back to gardening without pain.”

Success Stories from Patients in the Four Corners Region

Residents from Durango and beyond have experienced life-changing results with Dr. Butzen’s non-surgical shoulder treatments.

  • A Farmington teacher said, “I was worried about needing surgery for my shoulder arthritis, but Dr. Butzen’s injections and therapy plan worked wonders. I’m pain-free for the first time in years.”

  • A Cortez rancher shared, “I injured my shoulder during calving season and thought I’d be sidelined for months. Thanks to Dr. Butzen’s care, I was back to work in no time.”

Convenient Care Close to Home

Dr. Butzen sees patients at his main office in Durango and at his satellite clinic in Pagosa Springs. This makes it easier for residents of Farmington, Cortez, and other nearby areas to access high-quality orthopedic care without traveling far.

Schedule Your Consultation

Shoulder pain doesn’t have to control your life. Dr. Brian Butzen offers expert non-surgical shoulder treatments to help you get back to the activities you love. Call (970) 259-3020 today to schedule your consultation or visit [Brian Butzen MD’s website] to learn more.