The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help to keep the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) in the glenoid fossa (socket of the shoulder). A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons is torn.
Rotator cuff tears can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Age: Rotator cuff tears are more common in older people.
- Injury: Rotator cuff tears can be caused by a sudden injury, such as a fall or a sports injury.
- Overuse: Rotator cuff tears can also be caused by repetitive overhead activities, such as painting or swimming.
The symptoms of a rotator cuff tear can vary depending on the severity of the tear. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain in the shoulder
- Weakness in the shoulder
- Difficulty raising the arm overhead
- A clicking or popping sound in the shoulder
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Treatment for a rotator cuff tear will vary depending on the severity of the tear. In some cases, non-surgical treatment, such as physical therapy, may be enough to relieve pain and improve function. In other cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the tear.
Non-surgical treatment options for rotator cuff tears include:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy
- Injections: Corticosteroid or Platelet-Rich-Plasma (PRP)
Surgical treatment options for rotator cuff tears include:
- Arthroscopy: This is a minimally invasive surgery that uses small incisions to repair the tear.
- Open surgery: This is a more invasive surgery that uses a larger incision to repair the tear.
The best treatment option for a rotator cuff tear will depend on the severity of the tear, the patient's age and activity level, and the patient's preferences.
Dr. Stephen Thon is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine surgery, specifically shoulder and knee surgery. He has extensive experience in treating rotator cuff tears and can help you get back to the activities you love. If you are experiencing symptoms of a rotator cuff tear, please call Dr. Thon's office at 303-344-9090 to schedule a consultation.
Next Steps
We hope this helped to answer some of your questions about rotator cuff tears. If you're experiencing symptoms of a rotator cuff tear, it's important to seek guidance from a medical professional. If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Thon, please call his office at 303-344-9090. Dr. Thon has offices in Denver, Centennial, Lone Tree, and Parker. He looks forward to helping you achieve life, without injury.
Here are some additional tips for choosing a treatment option for a rotator cuff tear:
- Get a second opinion from another doctor.
- Ask about the risks and benefits of each treatment option.
- Consider your lifestyle and activity level when making a decision.
- Talk to your doctor about what to expect after treatment.
By following these tips, you can make an informed decision about the best treatment option for your rotator cuff tear.