Experienced Rotator Cuff Repair Assistance in the El Paso Area

The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that form a covering that surrounds the head of the upper arm bone (also known as the humerus). The rotator cuff keeps your arm in your shoulder socket. Although these tendons are strong, they can still tear if you lift a heavy object, for example. If one or more of the rotator cuff tendons tear, you will feel pain in your shoulder. The pain will remain even at night or while you’re resting. Pain will more-than-likely be present whenever you try to lift or lower your arm. If you’ve suffered from a rotator cuff tear, Sun City Orthopaedic & Hand Surgery Specialists can help.

Why Did My Rotator Cuff Tear?

Rotator cuff tears fall into two categories: acute and degenerative. An acute tear occurs suddenly, when you fall down or lift something that’s too heavy. A degenerative tear occurs over time as the tendon wears down. This tends to occur naturally as we age. It’s important to point out that many other factors can contribute to degenerative rotator cuff tears. Repetitive stress, specifically from sports such as tennis or baseball, can put you at risk for tears.

Rotator Cuff Repair Options

In order to treat rotator cuff tears, your surgeon will require x-rays and perhaps MRI or ultrasound scans in order to have a clear view of the damage. There are nonsurgical treatment options that can rid your shoulder of any pain while increasing function. Special strengthening exercises, medication, and steroid injections can treat the tear if it’s not too severe. If the tear is too severe or your pain does not subside after partaking in nonsurgical methods, then it will be time to consider surgery. Rotator cuff repair surgery can take place as open surgery or arthroscopic surgery.

What You Should Know Before and After Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

After your surgery, you will first have to immobilize your arm in a sling to allow your tendon to heal properly. This stage takes around four to six weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. Passive and active exercise will come next. These exercises will build up strength in your arm and shoulder. Eight to 12 weeks after the surgery, you will be able to begin partaking in strengthening exercises. Commitment is key when it comes to healing from a rotator cuff repair. If you’re in the El Paso area and you’re suffering from a torn rotator cuff, Sun City Orthopaedic & Hand Surgery Specialists can help. Contact us today.