More Than A Bum Shoulder
Shoulder pain is a common yet debilitating condition that affects thousands of people every year. The shoulder is vital for simple movements like lifting a fork to complex activities like throwing and climbing. Shoulder pain can happen for various reasons, but most are due to rotator cuff injuries. In some cases of shoulder pain, doctors may recommend rotator cuff repair surgery.
Understanding your rotator cuff
The shoulder is a joint consisting of 3 primary bones. The end of the upper arm bone connects to the collarbone and shoulder blade. A series of strong tendons and muscles wrap around these bones to form the rotator cuff. These tendons and muscles both secure the bones and help with movement. Due to overuse or injury, shoulders are susceptible to arthritis, sprains, and strains. In some cases, rotator cuff injuries can happen.
Signs of rotator cuff tears
Rotator cuff injuries often have specific symptoms such as a deep, dull ache. Other symptoms include weakness when raising the arm, pain during sleep, and signs of crepitus. Despite these symptoms, the best course of action is to visit a doctor immediately. The doctor can perform an x-ray or MRI to gauge the severity of the injury and diagnose treatment. In some cases, both patient and doctor can tell when rotator cuff repair surgery is necessary.
The shoulder’s gotten worse over time
Rotator cuff injuries respond well to non-surgical treatment. The doctor will often recommend a combination of pain medication, rest, and physical therapy. In some cases, these techniques fail, and the pain gets progressively worse. Some patients are unable to use the arm effectively or sleep on the injured side. When this happens, a doctor may recommend surgery.
You’ve had a severe shoulder injury
Most rotator cuff injuries are partial tears from overuse or arthritis. However, sudden, acute injuries may need immediate surgical care. Car accidents, falling on outstretched arms, and sports injuries are common examples. These may cause full-thickness tears that will require surgery to re-attach the tendon.
It’s affecting your quality of life
Some patients with rotator cuff tears may find daily tasks difficult. The injury may impact work, exercise, sleep, or social activities. Rotator cuff tears cause muscle weakness, meaning lifting even simple objects seem difficult. If there are severe work or financial consequences to the injury, surgery may be necessary.
How rotator cuff repair can help
Rotator cuff repair involves re-attaching the partial or complete tear to the bone. In the past, orthopedic surgeons performed open surgeries. Now, with minimally invasive means, the surgeon only needs 2-3 minor incisions. An arthroscope camera goes into one incision, and the repair tools go into the others. The surgeon can then clean up and re-attach the tendon to the bone. Minimally invasive surgery makes the procedure faster, safer, and more successful outcomes.
Look for the signs
Rotator cuff injuries are common, but all do not require surgery. The tendon can heal naturally with a pain management and physical therapy plan. However, there are some cases where non-surgical treatment alone will fail. Surgery may be best for full-thickness tears and injuries that get progressively worse. Ensure to address any prolonged shoulder pain with a visit to the doctor.
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“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
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“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
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“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
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A torn rotator cuff can benefit from rotator cuff repair. Minimally invasive surgery and therapy can restore shoulder function and relieve pain.
Ask The Anesthesiologist: Answers To Your Questions About Pain Management During Surgery
Patients can prepare for a successful surgery by selecting the right pain management options. Effectively manage post-surgery pain to ensure a smooth recovery.
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