Peter Millett, MD Orthopedic Surgeon - Sports Injuries

08/27/2026

A pinched nerve in the shoulder can sometimes mimic a rotator cuff tear, making an accurate diagnosis important. The evaluation may include a detailed medical history and physical exam, strength and sensation testing, X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, electromyography, nerve conduction studies, or ultrasound.

The goal is to determine which nerve is affected, where the compression is occurring, and how much damage has occurred. Identifying the problem early may improve the likelihood of nerve recovery.

On This Page Understanding Shoulder Nerve Compression Not all shoulder pain is caused by a rotator cuff tear or arthritis. In some cases, the problem is actually a pinched nerve in the shoulder. The symptoms can closely resemble other shoulder injuries, however, nerve compression disorders are somet...

08/20/2026

Few academic achievements represent the depth of scholarship, dedication and scientific excellence reflected in earning a Habilitation.

Congratulations to Dr. Rony Dey, located in Berlin, Germany, on successfully defending his thesis and reaching this remarkable milestone in his academic career.

His research has advanced our understanding of joint-preserving surgery for proximal humeral fractures, with foundational work conducted alongside Dr. Millett at The Steadman Clinic and Steadman Philippon Research Institute - Orthopaedic Research, where he was a Visiting Scholar.

His journey also highlights the international reach of the work being done in Vail, where collaboration with researchers and surgeons from around the world helps shape the future of orthopedic care globally.

This accomplishment is a testament to his exceptional scholarship, perseverance and commitment to advancing orthopedic research and patient care. An extraordinary achievement and one truly worthy of celebration.

08/20/2026

Shoulder injuries don’t always announce themselves with pain. For overhead athletes, weakness can sometimes be the first sign of a deeper problem.

In Elyse’s case, a noticeable loss of strength led to the discovery of a rare condition called suprascapular nerve entrapment, where nerve compression caused significant rotator cuff muscle atrophy.

Early recognition, the right diagnosis, and specialized treatment helped give her the opportunity to return to competitive volleyball.

Every athlete deserves a diagnosis that explains what they’re experiencing and a treatment plan designed around their goals.

A Rare Shoulder Injury Threatened a Rising Volleyball Career For most overhead athletes, shoulder injuries come with an acute injury or early warning signs like pain, popping or feelings of instability. For Elyse, there was none, no warning that her shoulder had a serious problem. At just 15 years o...

08/13/2026

“I’m too young for a reverse shoulder replacement.”

It’s a belief many patients have, but age is only one part of the conversation.

Advances in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty have expanded treatment options for select patients under 65 who have significant shoulder damage, helping many regain function, return to activities, and get back to work.

The right procedure depends on the individual, not just the number on their birthday.

Authors: Lorenz Fritsch, Colby Wollenman, Michael Nocek, Marilee Horan, Brendon Mitchell, Grant Dornan, Alan Villegas Meza, Maximilian Hinz, Marco‐Christopher Rupp, Peter Millett, MD Abstract: Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate outcomes, return‐to‐activity and work after reverse tota...

08/06/2026

A rotator cuff tear is not just an injury, it can change how you move, work, and live. Modern shoulder care is focused on more than repair. It’s about restoring function, improving mobility, and helping you return to the activities you love.

The goal is simple: a stronger, healthier shoulder. Learn more ⬇️

An Overview of Rotator Cuff Injuries The rotator cuff, located within the shoulder, is made up of tendons and muscles. These shoulder elements connect the upper arm bone with the shoulder blade and they are in place to help hold the ball of the upper arm bone firmly to the shoulder socket. All of th...

08/04/2026

Getting back to the activities you love is the goal and new research shows promising results for younger, active patients undergoing reverse shoulder replacement.

A recent study by Dr. Millett and his colleagues found significant improvements in pain, function, and quality of life, with:
✅ 89% returning to recreational activities with little to no limitations
✅ 95% returning to work with minimal or no restrictions
✅ Low rates of complications and implant failure

Advances in shoulder replacement are helping more patients get back to the things they enjoy most. Learn more ⬇️

Authors: Lorenz Fritsch, Colby Wollenman, Michael Nocek, Marilee Horan, Brendon Mitchell, Grant Dornan, Alan Villegas Meza, Maximilian Hinz, Marco‐Christopher Rupp, Peter Millett, MD Abstract: Purpose The aim of the study was to evaluate outcomes, return‐to‐activity and work after reverse tota...

07/31/2026

"Dr. Millett has replaced both my shoulders (reverse replacement), and with each experience, I’ve been so well cared for. I am impressed with every aspect of his continuum of care. I was recommended to him by my local doctor, and flew from Fairbanks, AK, twice to see him. I’d do it again!

Not only is Dr. Millett one of the top shoulder surgeons in the world, but he is also kind, humble, down-to-earth, and affordable. The administrative staff, the clinical staff, and the excellence in preparing patients with every aspect of surgery and exceptional shoulder replacements leave me incredibly appreciative for the life-changing experience. I highly recommend Dr. Millett, the Steadman Clinic, the Vail Valley Surgery Center, and Howard Head Physical Therapy." -Theresa Thompson

07/30/2026

Better shoulder care starts with understanding each patient’s unique needs.
Dr. Millett is honored to have been part of an international research team recognized with the Excellence in Research Award for developing and validating the BRACE (Bankart Risk Assessment & Clinical Estimator) Score.

This work helps us better assess shoulder instability and make more personalized treatment decisions: ultimately helping patients achieve better outcomes.

Grateful to my colleagues worldwide for their collaboration and dedication to advancing shoulder care. Learn more ⬇️

Dr. Peter J. Millett was part of an international research team that has been awarded the Excellence in Research Award from the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine for their manuscript, “Development and Validation of The BRACE (Bankart Risk Assessment & Clinical Estimator) Score, An I...

07/10/2026

A recent study by Dr. Millett and colleagues highlights an important point about the meniscus: it isn’t static.

In healthy knees, the meniscus shifts depending on position and load: it moves more when standing and weightbearing, and less when the knee is bent. This means MRI scans done while lying down may not fully reflect how the knee functions during daily life.

The takeaway: imaging is important, but it’s only part of the picture. Understanding knee health means looking at how the joint works during real movement, not just on static scans.

Background: Medial meniscal extrusion (MME) is a risk factor for osteoarthritis of the knee and is usually assessed using a supine, unloaded magnetic resonance ...

07/09/2026

Many people think a meniscus tear is just a small knee injury that either needs surgery or doesn't.

The truth is that the meniscus serves as one of the knee's most important shock absorbers. It helps cushion the joint, provide stability, and protect the cartilage that keeps the knee moving smoothly.

That's why treatment isn't the same for everyone. Some tears can improve with rehabilitation and activity modification, while others may require surgery. When surgery is needed, the goal is often to preserve as much healthy meniscus tissue as possible to support the long-term health of the knee.

The better question isn't, "Do I need surgery?" It's, "What's the best way to protect my knee for the future?"

Learn more ⬇️

Meniscus Injury Overview The meniscus is a small “c” shaped cartilage structure within the knee. that acts as a cushion in the knee joint. There are 2 menisci in each knee. The menisci sit between the thigh bone (femur) and the tibia (shin bone) acting as shock absorbers —one of these is locat...