The group of tendons and muscles that are formed over the shoulder joint are called the rotator cuff. These muscles and tendons help hold the arm in place. They also make it possible for you to freely move your shoulder. The rotator cuff is easily one of the most important parts of the shoulder, but it can get damaged very easily from overuse or a traumatic accident. If you have a strain or tear in the rotator cuff, then it can be nearly impossible to use your arm without causing severe pain. The best way to restore full function to your shoulder is by undergoing rotator cuff repair.
Rotator cuff repair is a medical procedure designed to fix a tear in one of the tendons on the shoulder. Since this is surgery, you should only consider rotator cuff repair if you have a fully torn rotator cuff. Partial tears of the shoulder tendons can potentially heal themselves with rest and physical therapy. If your partial tear is still causing you a lot of pain after a few months of treatment, then it is usually a good idea to have the surgery.
During this procedure, our doctor will insert an arthroscope into the area to help get a better view. Surgical tools are inserted into the area as well. These tools are then used to repair the tears in your tendons and muscles.
Most patients are allowed to go home on the same day as the procedure. It is important to keep your shoulder from moving too much while recovering. You will likely need to regularly attend physical therapy sessions to regain strength and movement in your shoulder. It impossible to predict how your body will respond to the therapy, but most patients are able to completely recover from their rotator cuff repair procedure within months.
Once you have healed, the pain in your shoulder should be drastically reduced. This will allow you to work and perform your other regular activities without worrying about a painful shoulder.
You can get all the facts about rotator cuff repair surgery during a consultation at Angelo Mattalino, MD in Phoenix. Don’t let your rotator cuff negatively affect your everyday life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to learn more!