Rotator Cuff Injuries

25 Oct

What Is a Rotator Cuff Injury?

Rotator cuff injuries are common shoulder problems that occur when the muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint are damaged or torn. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that work together to stabilize the shoulder and allow a wide range of motion. Injuries to the rotator cuff can range from mild inflammation (tendinitis) to partial or complete tears, causing pain, weakness, and limited mobility in the shoulder. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating rotator cuff injuries with personalized treatment plans to restore shoulder function and alleviate pain.

The rotator cuff consists of four muscles—supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis—that connect the shoulder blade to the upper arm bone (humerus). These muscles and their tendons form a “cuff” around the shoulder joint, allowing it to move in different directions while providing stability.

Rotator cuff injuries occur when one or more of these tendons become irritated, inflamed, or torn. The injury can result from acute trauma, repetitive overhead motions, or degenerative changes in the shoulder. Rotator cuff injuries are common among athletes, manual laborers, and older adults, particularly those who engage in repetitive arm movements.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries can develop due to several factors, including trauma, overuse, or age-related degeneration. Common causes include:

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries

The symptoms of a rotator cuff injury vary depending on the severity of the damage. Common signs and symptoms include:

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Injuries

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosing a rotator cuff injury involves a physical examination and imaging tests to assess the extent of the injury and determine the best course of treatment.

1. Physical Examination: The doctor will assess the range of motion, strength, and stability of the shoulder by asking you to perform certain movements. They will check for tenderness, swelling, and weakness in the shoulder.

2. Imaging Tests:

Treatment for Rotator Cuff Injuries

Treatment for rotator cuff injuries at Dr. Burke Orthopedics focuses on relieving pain, improving shoulder function, and preventing further damage. Both non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the injury and the patient’s activity level.

1. Non-Surgical Treatments:

2. Surgical Treatments: Surgery may be recommended if non-surgical treatments do not provide relief or if there is a complete tear of the rotator cuff. Surgical options include:

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from a rotator cuff injury depends on the severity of the injury and the treatment approach. For non-surgical cases, most patients experience significant improvement within several weeks to months with proper rest and physical therapy.

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide personalized rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring a full recovery and a return to pain-free movement.

Why Choose Dr. Burke Orthopedics for Rotator Cuff Injuries?

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer expert care for patients with rotator cuff injuries, providing both conservative and surgical treatment options based on the severity of the injury. Our team of orthopedic specialists is dedicated to helping patients relieve pain, restore shoulder function, and prevent future injuries. With advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, we ensure that each patient receives the best possible care for their specific condition. Whether you need non-surgical management or advanced surgical options, Dr. Burke Orthopedics is here to guide you through your recovery journey.