Surrounding the shoulder joint is a set of tendons and ligaments known as a rotator cuff. Rotator cuff injuries are fairly common and often occur in people as they get older. Athletes and those who perform certain shoulder-heavy tasks such as construction workers are also more at risk for developing rotator cuff tears. While this injury can be detrimental to an athlete’s career, the team at Samimi Orthopaedic Group provides state-of-the-art technology to repair rotator cuff tears.
What causes rotator cuff tears?
Rotator cuff tears fall into two categories: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic rotator cuff tears are often due to wear and tear and repetitive overhead motions. This occurs most often in athletes. Intrinsic rotator cuff tears are usually the result of aging.
What are the signs of a rotator cuff tear?
Knowing whether you might have torn a rotator cuff is incredibly important to ensure that you get the proper and immediate treatment you need from a qualified orthopedist. Common warning signs of a rotator cuff tear include,
- An aching pain that may get worse with overhead activities or at night
- Shoulder weakness, particularly during activity or when lifting objects over your head
- Limited range of motion in the shoulder, which can also result in shoulder pain
How is a rotator cuff tear diagnosed?
If you suspect that you might have a rotator cuff tear, our orthopedic team can easily diagnose this problem by simply performing a physical exam and imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound. An MRI will be able to determine the location and severity of the tear.
Does a rotator cuff tear require surgery?
Surgery is not necessary when dealing with a rotator cuff tear. Most people will experience a full recovery through rest and simple nonsurgical treatment options such as,
- Pain relievers
- Physical therapy
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Steroid injections
When is surgery necessary?
The initial response to treating a rotator cuff is through non-surgical approaches; however, our orthopedic team may recommend surgery if symptoms are severe or if nonsurgical methods are not providing you with ample relief.
What should I expect from shoulder cuff tear repair?
This minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery will repair the torn rotator cuff in order to restore strength and range of motion back into the injured shoulder. Surgery will also eliminate pain and swelling. This simple outpatient procedure is performed right here in our office and only takes about 2-3 hours.
If you are looking for an orthopedist in West LA or West Covina, CA, to treat your rotator cuff injuries,
call Samimi Orthopaedic Group at (310) 606-2156 or (626) 338-7391.
