top of page
About
Dr. Poh Keng Soon is a fellowship-trained consultant orthopaedic surgeon with experience in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
Dr. Poh specialises in minimally invasive keyhole (arthroscopy) and joint replacement (arthroplasty) surgeries, particularly of the shoulder and elbow joints.
Insurance panels
We accept payment/claims for most insurance providers:
from MediShield Life, Integrated Shield Plans (IPs), Personal Accident Insurance to corporate insurance
CONTACT US
Orthopaedic and Hand Surgery Partners
Gleneagles Hospital
#03-37 Annexe Block
6A Napier Road
Singapore 258500
or
Mount Alvernia Hospital
#06-08 Medical Center A
820 Thomson Road
Singapore 574623
Tel: +65-6970 7748
Mobile/WhatsApp: +65 8129 1019
Frequently asked questions
No. Most tennis elbow settles with non-surgical treatment. Surgery is considered only when symptoms continue despite this treatment.
Tennis elbow surgery may be recommended if symptoms have not responded after 6 to 12 months of non-surgical treatment.
Tennis elbow release is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means going home on the same day.
Tennis elbow release removes the damaged part of the tendon. Tendon repair reattaches healthy tendons to the bone, where this is needed.
You can usually begin moving your elbow, forearm, wrist and fingers after surgery and resume light activities. Gradually reintroduce heavy gripping and racket sports as your recovery progresses. Full recovery can take 3 to 6 months.
Yes, it is possible. Symptoms can continue or return after surgery.
The clinic accepts claims under MediShield Life, Integrated Shield Plans, personal accident insurance and corporate insurance, and can help with enquiries about insurance claims. MediSave can be used for tennis elbow release.
Consider an orthopaedic consultation if elbow pain, swelling or stiffness lasts despite rest, or if numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers keeps returning. A sudden injury after a fall, with swelling, bruising, severe pain or an obvious deformity, should be assessed promptly.
Pain on the outer side is most often tennis elbow, and pain on the inner side is most often golfer’s elbow. Both are overuse injuries of the forearm tendons at the elbow, caused by repeated gripping or wrist movements. However, other conditions, such as arthritis, fractures or nerve entrapment, can cause similar symptoms. A clinical examination by a trained doctor is needed to determine the underlying cause.
A common cause is pressure on the ulnar nerve at the inner side of the elbow, known as cubital tunnel syndrome. Symptoms often come and go and may be worse when the elbow stays bent, such as during sleep. Numbness in these fingers can also come from the neck or wrist, so an examination helps confirm the cause.
No. Most elbow conditions are treated without surgery first, using rest, activity changes, physiotherapy, bracing or splinting, medication or injections. Surgery is considered when symptoms continue despite non-surgical treatment, or when the type and severity of the injury make early surgery necessary, such as a completely torn biceps tendon. Dr. Poh explains the options, benefits and risks before any decision is made.
Yes, elbow surgery is done as day surgery, which means going home on the same day. Some operations may need a hospital stay. Dr. Poh will advise whether a stay is needed.
Dr. Poh reviews your medical history and symptoms and examines your elbow. He may recommend investigations such as X-rays or MRI scans for further evaluation, then discusses the treatment options and follow-up care.
No. Many arm fractures can heal with a cast, splint or brace. Surgery may be necessary for displaced, unstable or complex fractures, particularly when bone alignment cannot be maintained.
A plate is secured to the outer surface of the bone using screws, while an intramedullary nail is inserted into the bone's central canal. The choice depends on the fracture location and pattern.
B
Not necessarily. Implants may remain in place after the fracture heals. Removal may be discussed if they cause irritation or other complications, depending on individual clinical circumstances.
T
The clinic accepts claims under MediShield Life, Integrated Shield Plans, personal accident insurance and corporate insurance.
No. Stable, non-displaced fractures can often be managed with a cast, splint or brace. Surgery may be necessary when bone fragments are significantly displaced, or the elbow joint is unstable.
Stop using the injured arm and seek prompt medical assessment, as the fall may have caused a bone fracture, ligament injury or both. Avoid forcing elbow movement. Visit an emergency department immediately if there is visible deformity, an open wound or loss of sensation in the hand.
A cast or splint may be required for at least three to six weeks, while returning to light routine activities may take around 2-4 months. Full recovery can take longer, depending on the fracture severity and treatment.
Elbow stiffness can result from scarring of the joint capsule following injury or surgery, muscle–tendon tightness or spasm, and heterotopic ossification (bone formation in the soft tissues around the joint). Prolonged immobilisation can also restrict movement. Once the fracture is sufficiently stable, guided exercises and physiotherapy may help improve elbow mobility.
Not necessarily. Plates and screws can remain in place after the fracture heals. Removal may be discussed if an implant causes irritation or other complications, depending on the individual circumstances.
This depends on fracture healing, elbow mobility, strength and the physical demands of your work. You should only resume driving when you can safely control the vehicle and have been cleared of relevant medical restrictions.
Coverage depends on your policy and procedure. The clinic accepts payment or claims involving MediShield Life, Integrated Shield Plans, personal accident insurance and corporate insurance. Contact the clinic to confirm your insurance coverage and MediSave eligibility.
Studies have reported approximately 92–96% implant survival at 10 years following total shoulder replacement, with sustained improvements in patient-reported outcomes. However, implant longevity varies according to individual factors, and components may wear or loosen over time.
Anatomical replacement retains the natural ball-and-socket arrangement and generally requires a functioning rotator cuff. Reverse replacement changes this arrangement, typically moving the centre of rotation medially and increasing the deltoid muscle's mechanical advantage to help raise the arm when the rotator cuff is severely damaged.
Shoulder replacement is typically performed as a day procedure or involves an overnight hospital stay.
This depends on the type of replacement, your recovery progress and the physical demands of your job.
x
Yes. Reverse shoulder replacement is specifically designed to allow shoulder movement without a functioning rotator cuff, using the deltoid muscle to help raise the arm. Dr. Poh will assess your shoulder condition to determine whether this procedure is appropriate.
Corticosteroid injections may temporarily reduce shoulder inflammation and pain. However, they do not reverse cartilage damage or prevent arthritis from progressing.
The clinic accepts claims under MediShield Life, Integrated Shield Plans, personal accident insurance and corporate insurance.
Yes. Some patients recover with sling support and physiotherapy after the joint has been repositioned. Dr. Poh will assess shoulder stability and associated injuries to determine whether non-surgical treatment remains appropriate.
It is possible, particularly if the labrum or supporting structures were damaged during the initial dislocation. Dr. Poh can assess recurrent instability, including episodes where the shoulder feels as though it may slip out, and discuss appropriate treatment.
Yes, selected cases can be treated with arthroscopic Bankart repair, which uses small incisions to repair the torn labrum. Patients with significant bone loss may require the Latarjet procedure, which is generally performed through an open incision.
Bankart repair reattaches the torn labrum to the shoulder socket, while the Latarjet procedure transfers a bone block to support the socket. Dr. Poh assesses bone loss, previous surgery and sporting demands when discussing the appropriate procedure.
Recovery depends on the injury, associated tissue damage and treatment received. Following a shoulder stabilisation surgery, patients may generally return to sports after 4–6 months, depending on the injury, procedure performed and rehabilitation progress.
Returning to sports depends on tissue healing, shoulder movement, strength and stability. Dr. Poh will review your rehabilitation progress and sporting demands before advising on returning to contact sports, throwing or overhead activities.
We accept claims under MediShield Life, Integrated Shield Plans, personal accident insurance and corporate insurance.
Common shoulder injuries include rotator cuff tears, shoulder dislocations, shoulder impingement syndrome, labral tears, shoulder fractures, acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries, bursitis, tendonitis, and frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). Read Dr. Poh's article, Beyond a Shoulder Shrug, published in PRIME Magazine, for more information on shoulder pain and when to seek medical attention.
You should consider seeing a shoulder orthopaedic specialist if you experience persistent shoulder pain, limited range of motion, weakness, instability, or if you have sustained a shoulder injury. Additionally, if conservative treatments such as rest, ice, physical therapy, or medication have not provided relief, a consultation with a shoulder specialist may be warranted.
Treatment options for shoulder conditions vary depending on the specific diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. For most conditions conservative treatments or non operative treatment are recommended first, which may include rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and activity modification. For severe injury or in cases where conservative measures are ineffective, surgical intervention such as arthroscopic surgery, open surgery, or shoulder replacement may be recommended.
x
In some cases, untreated or improperly managed shoulder injuries can lead to long-term complications such as chronic pain, stiffness, weakness, instability, decreased range of motion, and an increased risk of recurrent injuries. Timely medical assessment and appropriate treatment may help reduce the risk of complications.
x
Shoulder arthroscopy is keyhole surgery that uses a camera and specialised instruments inserted through small incisions to examine and treat certain injuries within the shoulder joint.
Not always. Dr. Poh assesses your symptoms and examines your shoulder before recommending imaging. X-rays may be used to assess bone abnormalities, while MRI scans may help investigate suspected tendon, labral or other soft-tissue injuries.
Yes. Both conditions are commonly managed initially with activity modification, physiotherapy and suitable medication. Corticosteroid injections may be considered in selected cases. Surgery may be discussed if symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatment.
Dr. Poh reviews your medical history and symptoms, examines your shoulder and may recommend X-rays or MRI scans where indicated. He then explains the diagnosis, discusses treatment options and outlines a follow-up plan.
Consult Dr. Poh if pain, swelling, weakness or restricted movement persists after a sports injury, or if the affected joint feels unstable. Seek urgent medical attention for suspected dislocations, significant deformity or numbness following an injury.
N
A
Not necessarily. Many sports injuries can be managed without surgery.
M
The clinic accepts personal accident insurance claims and can assist with related enquiries. Coverage depends on your policy terms, eligibility and the circumstances of the injury.
Common shoulder injuries include rotator cuff tears, shoulder dislocations, shoulder impingement syndrome, labral tears, shoulder fractures, acromioclavicular (AC) joint injuries, bursitis, tendonitis, and frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).Read more athttps://prime.sg/beyond-a-shoulder-shrug-by-dr-poh-keng-soon/
You should consider seeing a shoulder specialist if you experience persistent shoulder pain, limited range of motion, weakness, instability, or if you have sustained a shoulder injury. Additionally, if conservative treatments such as rest, ice, physical therapy, or medication have not provided relief, a consultation with a shoulder specialist may be warranted.
During your first visit, Dr Poh will review your medical history and symptoms, performing physical examinations and may recommend diagnostic tests like X-rays or MRI scans to better understand your condition. After that, he'll discuss about your diagnosis and explore treatment options. You will also receive education about your condition and a follow-up plan for further management.
Treatment options for shoulder conditions vary depending on the specific diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. For most conditions conservative treatments or non operative treatment are recommended first, which may include rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and activity modification. For severe injury or in cases where conservative measures are ineffective, surgical intervention such as arthroscopic surgery, open surgery, or shoulder replacement may be recommended.
Recovery time for a shoulder injury varies depending on the type and severity of the injury, as well as individual factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to the treatment plan. Mild injuries may heal within a few weeks with conservative treatment, while more severe injuries or surgical procedures may require several months of rehabilitation before full recovery is achieved.
In some cases, untreated or improperly managed shoulder injuries can lead to long-term complications such as chronic pain, stiffness, weakness, instability, decreased range of motion, and an increased risk of recurrent injuries. Seeking timely medical attention and following a comprehensive treatment plan can help prevent these complications.
To reduce the risk of shoulder injuries, it's essential to practice proper body mechanics when lifting or performing overhead activities, warm up before exercising or participating in sports, use protective gear or equipment as appropriate, maintain good posture, strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, and avoid overuse or repetitive motions that can strain the shoulder. If you have specific concerns or questions about preventing shoulder injuries, consult with a healthcare professional or physical therapist for personalized recommendations.
Yes. You can choose the hospital for your surgery. Dr Poh is accredited in all Parkway Hospitals such as Mount Elizabeth, Mount Elizabeth Novena, Gleneagles and Parkway East Hospitals; Mount Alvernia and Farrer Park Hospital. Just let us know your preference, and we'll arrange accordingly for you.
bottom of page