A rotator cuff tear is a common cause of pain and disability among adults. The rotator cuff is composed of four muscles and several tendons that holds the humerus in place in the shoulder joint and enables the arm to rotate.
The rotator cuff can be torn from a single traumatic injury or from repetitive use. People who engage in repetitive overhead motions are especially at risk for overuse. These include participants in sports such as baseball, tennis, weight lifting, and rowing.
Patients often report recurrent shoulder pain for several months and a specific injury that triggered the onset of the pain. A cuff tear may also happen at the same time as another injury to the shoulder, such as a fracture or dislocation.
Diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear is based on the symptoms and physical examination. Imaging such as X-Ray, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or ultrasound may also be required.
What Can Help a Rotator Cuff Tear?
Rest, ice and/or heat can provide some relief. Some tears can be resolved with rest and rehabilitation.
When is Surgery Required for a Torn Rotator Cuff?
If pain and mobility problems continue after rest and physical therapy, surgery may be required. If tissue is torn, it will need to be surgically repaired. Many torn rotator cuff repairs can be done on an outpatient basis. A good surgical outcome relies on a strong commitment to rehabilitation.
Rotator Cuff Tear Success Story
My first encounter with Dr. R. Jeffry Grondel was after I had fallen in my home and went to the Emergency Room where they determined I had damaged my right shoulder, among other injuries, and needed to see a surgeon. Checking with friends for a recommendation I received several for Dr. Grondel.
On March 10, 2014, I had my initial appointment and brought in my X-rays from the emergency room. I was impressed with Dr. Grondel’s steps he took to completely understand the depth of my injuries, including additional X-rays, determine the procedure necessary to correct the problems and then explain them to me in a manner I could comprehend all that was involved.
Throughout the pre op visits, surgery and post op visits I found him to be professional, kind, reassuring and an amazingly understanding surgeon. He gave me his full attention, answered every question and reasoned with me when my expectations exceeded reality and guided me to the complete reuse of my injured arm.
I have had occasion, unfortunately, to revisit Dr. Grondel for his professional services and even when he determined I did not need surgery he maintained all the qualities that impressed me when he first became my surgeon and has guided me through the procedures necessary to regain the use of my injured area.
On a rating of 1-10 with 10 being the best – I rate Dr. Grondel a 10. – Joyce K