Shoulder Pain Got You Down?
A doctor or surgeon can often link acute or chronic shoulder pain to a rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that wrap around the shoulder joint. Without the rotator cuff, the shoulder would lack range of motion (ROM), stability, and strength. A rotator cuff injury means a partial or complete tear of at least 1 tendon. While some people have no symptoms from rotator cuff injuries, many experience pain, stiffness, and weakness that limit the function of the shoulder. Non-surgically or otherwise, addressing the injury is essential to improved shoulder recovery and function.
Healing your rotator cuff
At least 1 in 5 adults will experience a rotator cuff tear at some point. Only a doctor can diagnose a rotator cuff injury using physical tests, x-rays, and other imaging techniques. Most cases can be treated non-surgically. A combination of pain medication, the RICE method, and physical therapy (PT) can address most cases. During that time, the shoulder is secured using a sling or brace. Most rotator cuff patients experience restored function and significant pain relief when conservative treatment is consistent. Each recovery protocol varies depending on the extent of the injury and the patient’s health. However, on average, a rotator cuff injury requires several months to restore strength and function.
Is surgery the fast track to success?
For moderate to severe injuries, a non-surgical approach may not be enough to improve shoulder function quickly. Some rotator cuff patients need to fast-track recovery, such as people in sports or certain professions. Surgery is the most effective way to close the gap in recovery. Using a minimally invasive approach known as arthroscopy can quickly address ligament tears. An orthopedic surgeon will use multiple small incisions the size of buttonholes to access the damaged shoulder. An arthroscope, a long device with a light and camera attachment, is inserted through 1 incision. The scope projects images of the injured shoulder on an external screen, allowing a more effortless procedure. Surgical tools go into the additional incisions to clear damaged tissue and reattach the tendon to the shoulder with sutures. Arthroscopy is an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient can leave the hospital or surgical center on the same day.
Rebounding with rehabilitation
Surgery is effective at reattaching the ligament in the correct location, which speeds up the healing process. With outpatient arthroscopy, the patient can start PT faster. After 1-2 weeks of recovery, patients begin gentle exercises, stretching, and massage. These techniques increase in intensity over time as strength improves. Most individuals can return to everyday activities, like driving, lifting, and desk work, after 12 weeks. People in sports and other physically demanding spaces need additional time to build strength and conditioning. Opting for surgery, as opposed to a conservative approach, can save the average patient several weeks of recovery and pain.
A pain-free future
The goal in treating rotator cuff tears is to reduce the recovery timeline and maintain a fully functioning shoulder. Studies show that over 20% of patients can suffer another rotator cuff tear in the future. Doctors often recommend resistance training to improve the strength of the shoulder and surrounding muscles. Stretching before exercising and on rest days also enhances ROM and improves ligament health. Finally, noticing initial signs of injury, like inflammation, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, can help with prompt treatment. Surgery is the most effective way to fast-track shoulder injuries like rotator cuff tears. If non-surgical treatment fails to bring relief, talk to an orthopedic surgeon about the many benefits of minimally invasive surgery.
