Are you wondering if surgery the only way to treat a torn rotator cuff?
Every time you brush your hair, grab the shampoo from the shower caddy above you, or throw a ball, your shoulders (particularly your rotator cuff) are responsible for all of these movements. The rotator cuff, which is made up of tendons and muscles, keeps part of your shoulder bone in its socket. If you develop a rotator cuff tear suddenly or gradually from years of wear and tear, our West Covina, CA, orthopedists Drs. Babak and Soheil Samimi and Dr. David Eldringhoff offer a variety of treatment options including minimally invasive rotator cuff tear repair surgery right here at Samimi Orthopaedic Group.
What are the signs of a torn rotator cuff?
Since the rotator cuff is responsible for keeping the shoulder bone in the socket, those with torn or injured rotator cuffs will immediately notice shoulder weakness and instability. All those everyday tasks that require overhead movements may suddenly seem more challenging or painful.
Those with rotator cuff tears will notice pain even at rest. You may also notice a crackling feeling whenever you move your shoulder. If you are dealing with any of these symptoms of a rotator cuff tear you must turn to our West Covina, CA, orthopedists for an evaluation.
How is a rotator cuff tear treated?
You might be surprised to hear that there are nonsurgical approaches to managing your shoulder pain and improving shoulder function. In fact, the majority of patients notice an improvement in their pain and functionality through nonsurgical approaches such as,
- Modified activities and ample rest
- Pain-relieving medications such as ibuprofen
- Physical therapy to improve flexibility and mobility
- Specific stretching and strengthening exercises to rebuild and retrain the muscles of the shoulder
- Corticosteroid injections to treat more severe inflammation and pain
When should I consider surgery for a rotator cuff tear?
Whether you should consider surgery or not is something that we would be happy to discuss with you when you come in for your evaluation. Most people will see an improvement in their symptoms through nonsurgical methods, but if you don’t then surgery may be encouraged. Those who have a large tear, as well as athletes and those whose professions require a lot of overhead movements may benefit greatly from surgery.
Here at Samimi Orthopaedic Group, we offer arthroscopic shoulder surgery, which is less invasive than traditional surgical methods. This type of surgery requires a much smaller incision, which means less post-surgical discomfort and a faster recovery time. Since there are several methods for repairing a rotator cuff tear, we will discuss your surgical options with you during your consultation.
If you’re dealing with severe shoulder instability due to a rotator cuff tear and you want to talk about whether repair surgery is the right way to go, our West Covina and Brentwood, CA, orthopedists can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation so you can decide which treatment option is right for you. To schedule a consultation, call Samimi Orthopaedic Group at (310) 606-2156 or (626) 338-7391.