The “rotator cuff” is actually a group of distinct muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and support it through a wide range of motions. These structures can be damaged through either repetitive use or traumatic shoulder injury, and tears are most common in middle-aged and active athletes. Dr. Steven Struhl is a top orthopedic surgeon and shoulder specialist who offers advanced rotator cuff tear orthopedic treatment at his clinics in NYC and Westchester, NY.
Causes and Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears can be caused by repeated use of the arm overhead while playing sports, common in tennis, baseball or weightlifting. Shoulder tendon tears can also be caused by trauma from a fall or car accident injuries. Rotator cuff tears create severe pain, weakness of the arm and a crackling sensation when moving the shoulder in certain positions. There may be stiffness, swelling, loss of movements and tenderness in the front of the shoulder.
Rotator Cuff Tear
Evidence of a rotator cuff injury cannot be seen in x-rays. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is the most reliable way to identify tears in tendons of the rotator cuff. In many cases, physical therapy and/or medication can relieve the pain of a rotator cuff injury without surgery. Cortisone or steroid injections help relieve inflammation and minimize pain. Wearing a sling and rest can reduce pain. However, surgery is required to fix the tendon back to the shoulder bone. Rotator cuff repair may be performed by open surgery or arthroscopic procedure.
Rotator Cuff Repair
Do you have a rotator cuff tear that is causing ongoing pain and limiting your shoulder and arm function? Dr. Steven Struhl at Shoulders & Knees orthopedic clinic can provide pain relief and rotator cuff tear repair. Contact us to schedule an appointment with one of the top orthopedic surgeons and shoulder specialists to receive the best care for your rotator cuff injury.
