Rotator Cuff Pain Specialist

What is rotator cuff repair?

Rotator cuff repair is a surgery that restores torn tendons in your shoulder. The rotator cuff tendons help keep your shoulder joint in position while providing you with arm and shoulder flexibility.

A tear in one of these tendons can cause shoulder pain, weakness, and movement difficulties. Our rotator cuff specialists restore the damaged tendon and reattach it to the bone.

When might I need rotator cuff repair?

You could need rotator cuff repair if:

Conservative treatments haven’t worked

If conservative treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medicine, and rest don’t relieve your rotator cuff tear pain, you might need rotator cuff repair surgery.

Pain is long-lasting

If your shoulder pain lasts 6-12 months or longer, it’s unlikely to suddenly respond to nonsurgical care. Rotator cuff repair surgery could be right for you.

You have difficulty with routine movements

Most people who consider rotator cuff surgery have severe shoulder pain that prevents them from raising or rotating their arm normally. This could lead to you having trouble with movements like washing your hair, pulling on a jacket, or fastening a car seat belt.

Rotator cuff repair surgery is often the best way to restore your normal range of motion and eliminate pain. 

While age-related degenerative rotator cuff tears are the main reason for rotator cuff repair surgery, you might also need the surgery if you have a sudden rotator cuff injury. Sports injuries are a typical example of an acute injury that could require surgical repair.

How does rotator cuff repair work?

Ortho 1 Medical Group uses shoulder arthroscopy for most rotator cuff repairs. Shoulder arthroscopy involves a small instrument with a built-in light and camera. The arthroscope fits through a quarter- to half-inch shoulder incision. Your surgeon is able to see the inside of your joint on a bedside monitor.

They insert special surgical tools through another shoulder incision to remove the damaged tissue. Your surgeon then stitches the tendon back together. Your surgeon will typically use suture anchors on a fully detached tendon. These tiny rivets attach to your bone to hold the tendon in place. Arthroscopic surgery is a same-day procedure.

A large-incision open surgery is used only for particularly large or complex rotator cuff tears or when other shoulder problems are to be repaired at the same time.

Rotator cuff repair can ease pain, eliminate shoulder weakness, and restore your range of motion. It’s highly beneficial for many people with chronic shoulder issues. Learn more by calling Ortho 1 Medical Group or booking an appointment online.