Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is composed of four tendons that works as a stabilization unit of the shoulder during movement and rest. These tendons are very susceptible to injuries because they are long and pass through different structures in and around the shoulders.

Since the rotator cuff is elastic, it can be stretched over and over again by shoulder injuries. This makes it loose, which causes even more shoulder dislocations. This is because the joint becomes more unstable as it acquires more injuries. If this happens to you a lot, it is best to go to an orthopedic doctor right away. Sometimes, they recommend non-surgical treatments like shoulder exercises and medications. However, there are times when surgery is the best option for you. The arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive surgery that makes use of a fiber optic camera that is inserted to the affected area. This gives the orthopedic surgeon a clear view of the damage and a chance to repair it without putting too much trauma on the region. Since it is minimally invasive, recovery time is faster.

Are you having shoulder pain?

Do you experience constant pain in your shoulders? Or have you noticed that your shoulders have become weak? If this is the case, you might need to see an orthopedic doctor to have your rotator cuff checked. The rotator cuff is attached to the head of the upperarm, which makes it vital in letting your arm move freely without pain.

The rotator cuff can be easily damaged or injured, but when this happens, doctors usually prefer to treat it non-surgically. This means full rest with icing, physical therapy, taking pain medications, and sometimes even injection of steroids. However, if a patient experiences chronic shoulder pain, surgeons will most likely recommend rotator cuff repair.

Rotator cuff repair can be done through arthroscopic or open surgery procedure. During the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon makes sure that the space between the patient's shoulder blade and collar bone allows free movement by trimming bone protrusions and damaged tissue. Simple suturing can repair the rotator cuff if it is not completely torn. However, plastic or metal anchors will be used to stitch the tendon to the bone for a completely torn rotator cuff. After the surgery, a recovery program will be given to aid in the healing process. Medications will also be given to ease pain or discomfort.

Stop shoulder pain now and schedule an appointment with one of the skilled orthopedic surgeons.