The Importance of the Rotator Cuff
The shoulder is one of the hardest-working joints in the human body. Properly functioning shoulders provide a full range of motion, allowing us to do the activities we love, from baseball to bird watching.
The rotator cuff is a collection of muscles that surround the shoulder socket and keep the arm stable and in place. There’s a lot of friction and energy that can build up around the rotator cuff during normal activity. When the friction becomes too great, the rotator cuff may begin to detach from the shoulder joint proper and may tear away completely. Torn rotator cuffs can develop slowly over time or can result from a sudden shock to the shoulder, such as a sports injury.
Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff
There are several symptoms characteristic of torn rotator cuffs, including:
- Severe pain
- Loss of motion
- Weakness
If you believe you may be suffering from a torn rotator cuff, speak to your doctor. If necessary, a licensed medical professional can take X-rays to determine the exact location of the tear and confirm your symptoms aren’t the result of another shoulder injury.
Torn Rotator Cuff Treatments
The best treatment for a torn rotator cuff will depend on several factors, including the age of the patient and the severity of the damage. Some patients manage pain with ibuprofen or cortisone shots, while others may elect to undergo rotator cuff repair surgery.
During rotator cuff repair surgery, doctors make four to five small incisions, into which a small camera, called an arthroscope, is inserted. Sutures are placed along the edge of the torn rotator cuff and anchored to the shoulder joint, reattaching the rotator cuff. After surgery, it takes about a month of recovery before patients can resume limited shoulder activity. It takes another two to three months of supervised care and physical therapy to regain strength in the shoulder.
The experts at Yuma Bone and Joint can help you find relief from your torn rotator cuff and get you back to the activities you love. Schedule a consultation today!