Choosing an expert El Paso rotator cuff surgeon will make the difference in getting the proper treatment, as well as a speedy recovery to ensure your range of motion and freedom from pain is restored.
The rotator cuff comprises several muscles and the associated tendons that attach the upper arm bone to the shoulder blade. These muscles and tendons are used daily to raise and lower your arm or move the shoulder in circles. As these muscles work, they can gradually become weak. This type of injury occurs when one of your rotator cuff muscles or tendons is torn or injured.
The damage can cause inflammation of the tissue around it, making it feel stiff or painful. This can happen over time to a small or large part of the cuff, causing pain and discomfort in your shoulder. A rotator cuff repair operation is done to treat shoulder discomfort caused by a torn cuff. The surgery is done in an outpatient setting and requires only general anesthesia. You will wake up feeling well-rested and do not need to remain hospitalized following your procedure. Here we will discuss this type of repair and how a surgeon can help you.
Causes of Rotator Cuff Tear Injuries
Sometimes a tear develops quickly and results from an injury. This can happen if you fall on your shoulder or side and your arm is pulled across your body. Other times, tears in the rotator cuff develop slowly over time. This usually occurs due to a less visible injury, like a chronic strain from overuse. The shoulder joint may also wear down over time because of normal wear and tear associated with aging.
In older adults, rotator cuff tears are also more common in people with degenerative arthritis and poor posture. They may also be caused by repetitive overhead motions. If you perform repetitive overhead motions at work or participate in activities that involve overhead motions, like throwing or lifting weighty objects, you may be more likely to develop an injury.
Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries
The symptoms may vary based on the severity of the tear. Small tears might cause your shoulder to feel weak and give out when you try to raise your arm. A large tear could cause complete loss of function in your shoulder. Pain and stiffness can occur in your shoulder. The discomfort may worsen when you lift or rotate your arm. It is usually worse at night and may keep you awake at night.
You may feel like your shoulder has been pulled or strained, especially when you move it. This is known as a subluxation, when a joint goes partially out of its socket but remains in place. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may also have numbness or tingling in the shoulder.
Diagnosing Rotator Cuff Injuries
Besides being able to feel pain in your shoulder, there are a few other ways that your doctor can tell if you have a shoulder joint injury. Your physician will ask for a thorough medical history and perform a physical examination. Diagnostic tests may include X-rays, MRI, CT scan, and Ultrasound to identify any tears in the rotator cuff. They may also need a blood test and urine test. These tests will help rule out other medical conditions that can cause shoulder discomfort. A blood test can detect inflammation or infection caused by tendonitis or bursitis. An ultrasound will help your physician check for bone spurs and other soft tissue growths that may be causing the pain.
The tests can sometimes give a definitive diagnosis, but sometimes you will have additional follow-up appointments to check for the best treatment option. Your doctor may also refer you for physical therapy. If a confirmed rotator cuff tear is found, they will decide what operation is best to help improve your symptoms. This is usually done through arthroscopic surgery. This involves a small incision without cutting or drilling into your shoulder joint.
Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Injuries
Some treatment options include rest, physical therapy, steroid injections, and medications. Surgery is often necessary if these treatments do not work. If you have pain in your shoulder and have had negative results from other treatments, your doctor may recommend an operation. Surgery for these types of injuries can sometimes be more complicated because the muscles and tissue of your shoulder are very soft and unstable to fixate with stitches. This makes it challenging to repair.
During arthroscopic surgery, the El Paso, Texas rotator cuff repair specialist uses a camera to view the damaged tissue through a small incision. The surgeon uses special tools to cut out damaged tissue and attach a device that helps create blood flow and lymphatic drainage. You may feel discomfort or stiffness after the operation. Follow up with your doctor to determine if there are any complications following your procedure.
How Dr. Kruse Can Help with Rotator Cuff Surgery
Dr. Kruse is a rotator cuff specialist just a short flight from El Paso, TX. He is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and has been performing this type of surgery for many years. He specializes in shoulder surgery and has been dedicated to improving his skill set over the years. Dr. Kruse is highly trained in performing the most current surgical techniques. He uses a minimally invasive procedure to repair or replace your torn rotator cuff. His team is dedicated to helping you return to daily living and activities following your surgery.
He can also help diagnose any other underlying medical conditions that can cause shoulder pain and help to manage pain. Dr. Kruse is a patient-oriented surgical physician who will listen to your concerns and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. He takes the time to explain your options and answer your questions so you can decide how he can help best.
Rotator cuff tears can also cause muscle weakness and agony that may be disabling, especially if not treated. When identified early, they can usually be treated without major surgery. If you are suffering from discomfort, stiffness, or loss of mobility in your shoulder and want to learn more, contact an El Paso rotator cuff surgeon. Dr. Kruse will ensure that you are well informed and understand the procedure before it is performed.