The rotator cuff is a group of four essential muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable smooth movement. It consists of the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor muscles and tendons.
The goal of the rotator cuff is to stabilize the glenohumeral joint, but sports and other injuries can lead to a tear. Rotator cuff tears sometimes require surgery to restore shoulder movement.
At Alpha Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Dr. Jon Thompson and Dr. Brian Snow provide arthroscopic surgery for shoulder pain and rotator cuff tears. They are experienced orthopedic surgeons who walk you through every stage of the recovery process before surgery.
Rotator cuff tears vary in severity, from mild injuries to full-thickness tears. If conservative treatments fail or a significant tear impairs normal activities, you may require surgery to repair it.
A rotator cuff repair is an outpatient procedure that uses minimally invasive techniques to repair damage to the rotator cuff and restore shoulder function. We typically perform an arthroscopic repair, which requires only a few small ports for the camera and light to visualize inside the joint.
Through the arthroscope, we use specialized instruments to debride loose bodies and shave down bone spurs, creating more space for the tendons. When the joint space is clean, we use specialized anchors and sutures to repair the torn tendons and anchor them into the bone.
Depending on the size of the tear, you may require multiple sutures and anchors to hold the tendons together after the repair.
You can go home the day of surgery to rest. We suggest getting ahead of the pain by starting pain medications before you start to feel discomfort. The first few days may bring discomfort and swelling.
We suggest doing the RICE method: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. You can apply ice to reduce swelling and relieve pain for 20 minutes on the shoulder several times a day.
You’ll be in a sling to take pressure off the repair. You should wear the sling at all times, except when showering and during the specific exercises we prescribe.
Physical therapy starts early to help maintain shoulder motion and strengthen the muscles that support it. PT sessions happen several times a week for the first three months while you heal.
Passive movement exercises are best in the first few weeks. Use your other arm to move the surgical arm gently. Pendulum swings, elbow bends, and wrist movements are key to the recovery process.
Avoid any lifting, pushing, or pulling with the surgical arm. Allowing the cuff to heal properly is the best way to ensure long-term success after surgery.
Most people experience significant pain relief and improved function after a rotator cuff repair. With regular therapy and adherence to all post-operative instructions, many people have a successful repair even 10 years after surgery.
The first few years are extremely important in ensuring the repair doesn’t fail. Although you can return to normal activities within six months of surgery, it’s essential to take everything slowly.
It’s common to experience some discomfort and swelling months after the initial repair. However, many people experience significant improvements in movement, flexibility, and discomfort after a rotator cuff repair.
Call our McKinney or Prosper, Texas, offices, or contact us through our website to schedule an appointment with Dr. Thompson or Dr. Snow for a rotator cuff injury. Take the next step toward faster healing and recovery today.
