Rotator Cuff Repair

What is the Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These structures work together to keep the shoulder stable while allowing a wide range of motion. Overuse, age-related wear and tear, or sudden injury can cause damage to the rotator cuff, resulting in pain, weakness, and limited mobility.

Common Types of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries can vary in severity, including:

• Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons, often caused by repetitive overhead motions.
• Partial Tears: Damage to the tendon that doesn’t completely sever it.
• Complete Tears: When the tendon is fully torn or detached from the bone.

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Signs of a rotator cuff injury include:

• Persistent shoulder pain, especially during overhead activities.
• Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm.
• A cracking or popping sensation in the shoulder.
• Difficulty sleeping due to shoulder discomfort.
• Limited range of motion or stiffness in the shoulder joint.

If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to seek evaluation from a shoulder specialist.

Comprehensive Treatment Options

At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, we offer a wide range of treatment options for rotator cuff injuries, from non-invasive care to advanced surgical procedures.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Many rotator cuff injuries can be effectively managed without surgery. Treatment options include:

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises to improve shoulder stability and restore function.
• Activity Modification: Adjustments to avoid movements that aggravate the injury.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications: To reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Temporary relief for inflammation and pain.

Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

For patients with significant tears or injuries that don’t respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary to restore shoulder function. Our team offers advanced surgical options, including:

• Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A minimally invasive technique using small incisions and specialized tools to repair torn tendons.
• Open Rotator Cuff Repair: Used for larger or more complex tears, involving a larger incision to access the damaged area.
• Tendon Grafting or Augmentation: For severe cases, a tendon graft may be used to reinforce or replace the damaged tendon.

Our surgeons use the latest techniques to ensure precise repairs, reduce recovery time, and optimize outcomes.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery from rotator cuff repair is a gradual process, with most patients returning to full activity within 6 to 12 months. Key phases of recovery include:

• Immobilization: Wearing a sling or brace to protect the shoulder during the initial healing phase.
• Rehabilitation: Guided physical therapy to rebuild strength, improve range of motion, and restore shoulder function.
• Return to Activity: A gradual reintroduction of activities, tailored to your goals and lifestyle.

Our team will work closely with you to ensure your recovery is smooth, effective, and aligned with your personal objectives.

Why Choose Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush?

Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is a leader in shoulder care, offering cutting-edge techniques and a patient-centered approach. Our specialists are committed to providing personalized care and achieving the best possible outcomes, whether your injury is work-related, sports-related, or age-related.

Don’t let a rotator cuff injury limit your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our comprehensive rotator cuff repair services.