What Is the Best Treatment for a Rotator Cuff Injury?

Rotator cuff tears are very common, and very successfully treated with arthroscopic surgery. Rotator cuff injuries are often seen in men and women in the San Fernando Valley who perform overhead motions repeatedly. Many times, this overuse injury is caused as the result of work, or sports. For example, tennis players who repeatedly serve, in an overhead motion, or in individuals who lift, paint, or work in construction are prone to suffering a rotator cuff injury. Any type of trauma, such as a hard fall, or an auto accident can also result in a rotator cuff injury.

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury in the San Fernando Valley

Rotator cuff injuries may not be apparently obvious. But when symptoms do arise they typically include shoulder pain, and weakness when elevating or rotating the shoulder. Though occasional pain in the shoulder may not be cause for alarm, if ongoing pain occurs for weeks or months, it is necessary to see an expert Orthopedic Surgeon, who can confirm the diagnosis of a rotator cuff injury through an MRI. Depending upon the extent of the injury, in many cases, the best treatment for a rotator cuff injury is arthroscopic surgery.

Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair of the Shoulder

Should an MRI indicate a rotator cuff tear, Dr. Silver will make tiny punctures through which the arthroscope can be used to confirm the tear. Next, the camera will magnify the tear in the rotator cuff, so that the areas needing repair are immediately clear. Repair to the rotator cuff involves the removal of the inflamed or damaged tissue which is pinching and resulting in pain. Using special suture anchors, the muscle and the tendon can both be repaired during arthroscopic surgery.

Recovery from Rotator Cuff Injury Surgery in the San Fernando Valley

Fortunately, arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery is an outpatient procedure, but following surgery, men and women in Encino can expect to wear a brace for approximately six weeks while recovering. Physical therapy is also ordered to regain range of movement, and to build strength back up.

This type of treatment for a rotator cuff injury is generally low risk, meaning complications are not common. However, it is important to note that shoulder pain which does not go away, needs to be addressed by an expert orthopedic surgeon. Delaying treatment can lead to more extensive damage, or a more complicated surgery.

If you're experiencing ongoing shoulder pain, it is important to schedule a consultation with a top San Fernando Valley Orthopedic Surgeon today. Dr. Silver, Founder of Silver Orthopedics in Encino has performed tens of thousands of arthroscopic surgeries. Contact Silver Orthopedics in Encino at 818- 784-9593 to schedule an appointment.