Don’t Lose Your Cuff

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles that wrap around each shoulder joint. These tendons and muscles combine to stabilize and protect the joint while aiding the shoulder’s range of motion. Rotator cuff tears are common among athletes due to repetitive motions like pitching or throwing. However, most cases are due to overuse, with years of lifting heavy objects or manual work fraying the tendons over time. Acute tears can also occur after a fall, collision, or accident. Moderate to severe cases can benefit from rotator cuff repair. This innovative surgery can help relieve pain and restore shoulder function.

Breaking down your rotator cuff injury

Rotator cuff tears have specific symptoms that can worsen over time. Pain in the shoulder, weakness, and limited range of motion are common concerns. Another common sign is a catching or painful clicking sensation when raising the arms overhead. If left untreated, rotator cuff tears limit shoulder and arm function. Athletes and other essential workers will have limited performance and productivity. If these signs appear, especially after a fall or collision, seek medical attention immediately. A doctor can perform imaging tests to confirm the injury and provide a treatment plan.

When should you consider rotator cuff repair?

Rotator cuff tears are classified by grades, with grade 1 being a minor tendon stretching. Grade 2 means the tendon, like a rope, is partially torn or frayed. Grade 3 is a full-thickness tear of the tendon. Doctors recommend non-surgical treatment for mild to moderate injuries. These strategies include pain medication, rest, icing, bracing, and physiotherapy. Together, these can reduce pain and restore function in a few weeks. However, severely frayed or fully torn rotator cuffs need repair to restore the shoulder’s capabilities. Additionally, if the shoulder is not responding to conservative treatment, surgery can address the root cause of the pain.

Inpatient vs outpatient surgery

Rotator cuff repair involves reattaching the damaged tendon to the shoulder joint. The surgeon will use sutures and an anchor to secure the tendon in place. There are 2 types of procedures. Open surgery uses a large incision to access the joint. This option is called inpatient surgery, as the patient must stay at the hospital for at least 24 hours. Outpatient surgery uses minimally invasive surgery (MIS) via an arthroscope. This device is funneled through a small hole in the shoulder and can project the inner workings of the shoulder via camera. About 1-2 additional incisions allow the surgeon to insert small tools to repair the rotator cuff. Outpatient surgery means the patient can leave on the same day. This option also allows for less pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery.

Recovery and rehab for restoring shoulder function

After surgery, physical therapy (PT) is essential to restore shoulder function. The patient will perform a series of stretches and exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles. These exercises will also help with range of motion and flexibility. Over time, the patient will feel less pain and gradually improve flexibility. Moderate tears can take 3-4 months for a full recovery. Complete tears can take 6 or more months, depending on when the patient wants to resume activities. Surgery and PT work together to achieve a 95% patient success rate.

Resume worry-free, pain-free rotation

Rotator cuff tears get progressively worse if left untreated. The risk of injury increases with age or repetitive overhead motions. The pain and instability eventually prevent optional function. While non-surgical treatment can help, doctors recommend rotator cuff repair for severe cases. Using outpatient surgery, patients can start the recovery process quickly. With consistent PT, the shoulder becomes worry-free and pain-free.