There are
two main types of tears:
- Partial Tear
- Full Thickness or Complete Tear
Tears are
primarily caused by acute injury or overuse. Acute tears are the result of
injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm or lifting a heavy object. With
acute injuries, it is not uncommon to see other injuries present as well.
Tears caused
by overuse or degeneration occur over time and can be the result of the
following:
- Repetitive motion of the shoulder (i.e. lifting, throwing, overhead work)
- Blood supply – as we age, the blood supply to the rotator cuff tendon decreases leaving the rotator cuff more susceptible to injury
- Shoulder impingement
Symptoms of
a rotator cuff tear include:
- Pain at rest and/or at night
- Pain with lifting
- Weakness
- Cracking in the shoulder
Treatment of
rotator cuff tears depends on the severity of the tear. Partial tears can often
be treated non-surgically with physical therapy, rest, ice and
anti-inflammatory medication. For full thickness tears, surgical intervention
is recommended. Surgery is performed arthroscopically through a small incision
in the shoulder.
In surgical
repair, bio-absorbable anchors are used to reattach the rotator cuff to its anatomically
correct position. In our practice, we use a “double row” technique to reinforce
the repair, reduce the risk of a repeat tear and enable healing.
Some
physicians recommend moving the shoulder immediately following surgery,
however, we disagree. We recommend immobilizing the shoulder for approximately
3-4 weeks post-op. The Center for Special Surgery agrees and published an
article on how immobilization following rotator cuff surgery leads to better
healing. For a full overview, please see our previous post from August 2012.
Rotator cuff
tears are common and treatable. Early intervention in the case of degenerative
tears can help prevent the need for surgical intervention. Advocare Orthopedic
and Sports Medicine is here to help. Call to schedule your appointment:
973-300-1553 or follow us at facebook.com/johnvitolomd.
