Rotator Cuff Tear

What is a rotator cuff tear? 

Your rotator cuff keeps your shoulder joint in place, making it possible for you to perform a full range of motion. Many rotator cuff injuries develop due to overuse of the tendons and muscles surrounding the shoulder joint. When these tissues become overstretched, small tears can develop as a result. As the tear becomes larger, you may notice that it becomes increasingly difficult to move your arm and shoulder in any direction. 

Athletes who play tennis and baseball are vulnerable to rotator cuff injuries because of the specific movements they make with their shoulder and arm. People who have occupations that require them to reach overhead frequently are also at a high risk of developing rotator cuff tears. 

How do I know if I have a rotator cuff tear? 

If you have a rotator cuff tear, you may experience a dull, aching pain that begins in your shoulder. You may also find it challenging to reach over your head to get dressed or perform routine tasks due to the weakness and pain in your arm. 

Many people also find it difficult to get quality sleep when they have a rotator cuff tear, especially if they rest on the affected shoulder. 

To determine the best treatment option for your rotator cuff tear, Dr. Weber reviews your medical history, orders diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-rays, and discusses the severity of your symptoms. 

As a conservative provider, he typically recommends surgical intervention as the last resort and may recommend nonsurgical or minimally invasive therapies before proceeding with surgery.  

Rotator cuff tears may be treated with: 

• Physical therapy 
• Ultrasound-guided joint injections
• Anti-inflammatory medications

Dr. Weber offers innovative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to naturally help promote your body’s healing response to repair damaged tissue. If these treatment options aren’t effective at improving your range of motion, he may then recommend surgical approaches. 

What are my surgery options for a rotator cuff tear?

Dr. Weber offers two surgical options for rotator cuff tears. Depending on your condition, he can recommend the best approach for you:

Shoulder arthroscopy 

Using minimally invasive surgical techniques, Dr. Weber can make repairs to torn tendons or muscles that make up your rotator cuff. Shoulder arthroscopic procedures involve smaller incisions, reducing your risk of scarring and postsurgical complications. 

Shoulder replacement

If you have a major tear that causes the shoulder joint to become unstable, Dr. Weber may recommend replacement. This involves removing parts of the damaged shoulder joint and replacing it with artificial parts that function like your natural joint. You may be a candidate for a partial or total shoulder replacement. 

Dr. Weber also specializes in reverse shoulder replacement, which is an advanced technique that treats both a rotator cuff tear and shoulder arthritis. 

To get your shoulder evaluated for a rotator cuff tear, call Alexander E Weber, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.