A rotator cuff injury is a type of shoulder injury that can be both painful and limiting, especially if it disrupts your daily activities or fitness routine. Whether the injury can heal on its own or requires surgical intervention depends on the severity, your lifestyle, and your commitment to rehabilitation.
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable arm movement. Injuries to the rotator cuff typically involve tears, inflammation, or tendinitis. These can occur due to trauma, overuse, or age-related wear and tear.
Minor Injuries and Natural Healing
In many cases, minor rotator cuff injuries, such as small tears or tendinitis, can heal without surgery. Rest, physical therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often effective in managing symptoms and promoting recovery. Applying ice, avoiding strenuous activities, and engaging in targeted physical therapy exercises can help restore strength and flexibility. These conservative treatments typically take several weeks to months to show results.
When to Consider Surgery
For more severe injuries, such as complete tears or those accompanied by persistent pain and loss of function, surgery may be necessary. If you’ve tried non-surgical treatments for several months without improvement, or if your occupation or hobbies involve overhead movements that the injury hinders, surgical intervention might be the best option. Rotator cuff surgery can repair torn tendons and restore shoulder function. However, surgery comes with its own risks, including a lengthy recovery period of 4–6 months, during which physical therapy is crucial for regaining full mobility.
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For proactive measures in preventing rotator cuff injury, learn more about keeping your shoulders healthy as you age in our complete guide with tips to practice at home. |
Types of Surgery For Rotator Cuff Tears
When seeking orthopedic surgery for your rotator cuff injury, your surgeon may suggest one of the following procedures:
● Arthroscopic Repair
This minimally invasive technique involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) and surgical instruments through tiny incisions. The surgeon views the shoulder on a monitor and repairs the tear by suturing the torn tendons back to the bone.
● Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
This procedure is used when rotator cuff tears are accompanied by arthritis or if other surgeries have failed. The ball and socket of the shoulder joint are reversed, relying on the deltoid muscle instead of the rotator cuff for movement.
Possible surgical procedures for injured rotator cuffs aren’t limited to what’s listed above. For a more accurate idea of what to expect, it’s best to consult with your orthopedic surgeon.
Orthopaedic Medical Group Performs Rotator Cuff Surgery In Winter Haven
When you visit Orthopaedic Medical Group of Winter Haven for rotator cuff injuries, our team will go over every detail of your treatment plan including rotator cuff repair and rehabilitation. Give your local office a call today at 813-684-2663 to schedule a consultation appointment.
