Rotator Cuff Tears

25 Oct

What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

A rotator cuff tear is a common shoulder injury that occurs when one or more of the tendons in the rotator cuff are torn. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing for a wide range of shoulder movement. Tears in the rotator cuff can range from partial to complete, with varying levels of pain and dysfunction. These injuries can result from acute trauma, repetitive shoulder motions, or age-related degeneration. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide expert care for rotator cuff tears, offering both conservative and surgical treatment options to help patients restore shoulder strength and mobility.

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the tendons that attach the rotator cuff muscles to the humerus (upper arm bone) become damaged or torn. This injury can happen due to a sudden traumatic event, such as a fall or lifting a heavy object, or it can develop gradually over time due to repetitive use or degeneration of the tendons.

There are two types of rotator cuff tears:

Rotator cuff tears are particularly common in individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities, such as athletes and manual laborers, as well as older adults due to the natural weakening of the tendons over time.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears can develop from various causes, including acute injuries and degenerative changes in the shoulder joint. Common causes include:

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears

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

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosing a rotator cuff tear involves a thorough physical examination and imaging tests to assess the extent of the tear and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

1. Physical Examination: The doctor will evaluate the range of motion, strength, and stability of the shoulder by asking the patient to perform specific movements. They will check for tenderness, weakness, and pain during shoulder motions.

2. Imaging Tests:

Treatment for Rotator Cuff Tears

Treatment for rotator cuff tears at Dr. Burke Orthopedics focuses on relieving pain, improving shoulder function, and preventing further damage. The choice of treatment depends on the size and severity of the tear, the patient’s activity level, and the overall condition of the shoulder. Both non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available.

1. Non-Surgical Treatments:

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

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear 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 Tears?

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer expert care for patients with rotator cuff tears, 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.