Need a Second Opinion on Your Shoulder Diagnosis? We'd Like to Talk to You

If you’re struggling with shoulder pain or have a shoulder injury, an accurate diagnosis and opinion on treatment from a highly skilled professional is crucial for your recovery. There are many reasons patients may consider seeking a second opinion. 

For example, if the first specialist recommends surgery, you want to obtain a second opinion to confirm that surgery is the most appropriate option. In fact, this is one of the most common scenarios our orthopedic shoulder and sports medicine physician, Matthew Pifer, MD, in Santa Barbara, California, encounters when patients visit for a second opinion. 

In other cases, patients seek a second opinion because their current treatment plan is ineffective. 

Dr. Pifer specializes in minimally invasive surgical shoulder repair. He takes the utmost care to discuss and explore appropriate treatment options, including those that may reduce the need for surgery. 

At our clinic, we understand the importance of feeling confident in your care plan. We're here to offer a second opinion to ensure you're on the best path to recovery.

Why seek a second opinion?

From rotator cuff tears and impingement to arthritis and dislocations, the potential issues are as varied as the available treatments. With such a wide range of diagnostic tools and treatments, it is crucial to get a comprehensive evaluation from a different perspective.

Dr. Pifer can provide a second opinion, ensuring that all possible diagnoses are considered and that the recommended treatments are the best course of action. 

Shoulder arthroscopy for accurate diagnosis

Our team specializes in the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment strategies. Dr. Pifer has extensive experience using arthroscopy to diagnose and treat shoulder issues, and it offers distinct advantages. 

This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a small camera into the shoulder joint, which provides Dr. Pifer with a detailed, real-time view of the shoulder structure. 

This direct visualization allows for an accurate diagnosis of a wide range of shoulder conditions, from rotator cuff tears to shoulder instability. 

Unlike open surgery, which requires larger incisions and longer recovery times, arthroscopy offers a less invasive approach. It reduces the risk of complications and accelerates the healing process.

Cutting-edge surgical approach

Arthroscopy enables Dr. Pifer to diagnose shoulder issues and repair the shoulder during a single procedure. He can insert special surgical instruments through small incisions alongside the arthroscope, repair damaged shoulder tissues, remove loose cartilage, or release tight structures.

This dual capability minimizes the physical impact, leading to less postoperative pain, decreased need for pain medication, and a quicker return to daily activities and sports. 

Personalized care tailored to you

Our approach centers on personalized care, meaning we take the time to understand your situation. We explore your medical history, conduct a detailed physical examination, and use advanced techniques to get a complete picture of your shoulder's health. That helps ensure you get a second opinion you can trust. 

PRP therapy may reduce the need for surgery

In addition to minimally invasive shoulder surgery, Dr. Pifer specializes in biologic therapies that harness the body’s own capabilities to accelerate tissue repair and stimulate tissue regeneration. 

While surgical repair is associated with excellent results, platelet-rich plasma therapy can, in some cases, reduce the need for surgery. We’re seeing excellent results using PRP therapy for partial rotator cuff tears and arthritis. 

Dr. Pifer takes pride in staying at the forefront of orthopedic medicine. If you're second-guessing your shoulder diagnosis or feeling uncertain about your treatment plan, see Dr. Pifer. 

Seeking a second opinion is a proactive step towards ensuring you receive an accurate diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment approach. Contact our scheduling coordinator to request an evaluation with Dr. Pifer today.