What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The rotator cuff tendons stabilize the shoulder and help it move. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the rotator cuff tendons are torn. Tendon tears can be partial or complete. They are grouped into non-degenerative and degenerative categories.
Common Causes:
- Sports injuries
- Traumatic accidents
- Osteoarthritis
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear may include:
- Pain
- Weakness
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Decreased range of motion/inability to move the arm
When you arrive for your initial consultation, one of our team of shoulder specialists will evaluate your areas of concern, discuss your symptoms, and develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This evaluation is a necessary part of diagnosing your condition and providing the best possible care.
When diagnosing a rotator cuff tear, The OPA Shoulder Specialist:
- A medical, injury, and symptom history review
- A physical examination
- Multiple view x-rays
Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.
Common Treatments:
Nonsurgical treatment options may be used to treat some rotator cuff tears. An OPA specialist’s nonsurgical treatment plan includes:
NSAIDs
Decrease inflammation and pain.
Physical Therapy
One of OPA’s onsite physical therapists prescribes and monitors strengthening and stretching exercises.
Rest & Ice
Temporarily stopping or slowing down activities that cause shoulder tendonitis gives inflammation a chance to calm down.
Many complete rotator cuff tendon tears require surgical intervention. The team of shoulder specialists have expertise in performing minimally invasive arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs.
