Rotator Cuff Tears Repair Surgery
The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles that reside within the shoulder joint, and they are responsible for keeping the arm inside of the shoulder joint. When one or more of the tendons are stretched or torn, it is called a rotator cuff tear. At DOCS Health, orthopedic specialists offer advanced treatments for shoulder injuries at our Los Angeles medical center, including rotator cuff tears repair surgery.
The shoulder is a unique joint and configuration in many ways, including the design of the rotator cuff. The four muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff are connected to the top of the humerus inside the joint, not on the outside, as is common in most joints. The shoulder bursa allows the tendons to slide over the scapula without friction. However, the limited space inside the joint can result in friction if the tendons or bursa become inflamed, causing shoulder pain and limited mobility.
Causes and Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff tears can be partial or complete, depending on the severity and type of injury. Trauma can tear a rotator cuff tendon. Falling on an outstretched arm or lifting in a jerking motion can result in an acute rotator cuff tear. Degenerative rotator cuff tears occur from repetitive use and weakening of the tendons. This can be caused by repetitive motions, bone spurs or lack of blood supply. Both trauma and degenerative rotator cuff tears can be either partial or complete.
Symptoms of rotator cuff tears can occur suddenly with a trauma injury or slowly worsen with degenerative fraying and tears. These include:
- Crackling sensation when moving arm or shoulder
- Pain when lifting or pulling
- Pain in shoulder when sleeping or at rest
- Weakness when rotating or lifting arm
Mild or partial rotator cuff tears can be treated with conservative methods, including rest, anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections and physical therapy. However, if the tears are severe or complete, surgery may be required.
At DOCS Health, we offer advanced options in rotator cuff tears repair surgery. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is often done in conjunction with an arthroscopic subacromial decompression and distal clavicle excision for treatment of shoulder impingement accompanying a rotator cuff tear.
If you have symptoms of rotator cuff tears, contact our orthopedic clinic in Los Angeles to schedule an exam and treatment consultation.
Doctors who treat this condition
Unless otherwise indicated, the physician is a member of DOCS Health Medical Group and has medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both. Physicians denoted with an asterisk (*) are independent physicians who are not part of DOCS Health Medical Group, but do have medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both.