Shoulder Ligament Injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. It helps lift and move the arm and keeps the shoulder joint stable.
When the rotator cuff is injured or torn, it can cause shoulder pain, weakness, and difficulty lifting or moving the arm.
The rotator cuff controls shoulder joint movement and helps keep the shoulder joint stable.
Causes of Rotator Cuff Injury
Common causes include:
Symptoms to Watch For
- Shoulder pain
- Night-time shoulder pain
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
- Weakness when lifting the arm
- Difficulty reaching for or lifting objects overhead
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory injections in some cases
When Is Surgery Recommended?
- Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
- Significant weakness
- Full-thickness tendon tear confirmed by MRI
- Symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatment
- The patient needs to return to heavy physical work or sports
How Is the Surgery Performed?
Treatment is performed using arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery (Arthroscopic Surgery).
The surgeon inserts a small camera into the shoulder joint and repairs the torn tendon by reattaching it to the bone through small incisions. This minimally invasive technique helps reduce tissue damage.
Hospital Stay
Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-3 nights, while some may be able to return home on the same day.
Recovery Time
- Wear an arm sling for approximately 4-6 weeks
Begin physical therapy after surgery - Resume normal daily activities in approximately 3 months
- Full recovery may take approximately 6 months
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a rotator cuff tear?
It is a condition in which the tendons around the shoulder joint become inflamed or torn, causing shoulder pain, difficulty lifting the arm, and problems with daily activities.
Does a rotator cuff tear always require surgery?
No. Minor tears or mild symptoms may be treated with medication, physical therapy, and activity modification. Surgery may be considered for larger tears or persistent symptoms.
How is a rotator cuff injury diagnosed?
A doctor will review the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination. Additional tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to assess the tendon and shoulder joint.
What happens if a rotator cuff injury is left untreated?
The tear may become worse, muscle weakness may develop, and shoulder movement may become increasingly limited, affecting daily activities.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery depends on the severity of the injury and the treatment method. It may take several weeks to several months, along with ongoing physical therapy.
Shoulder pain, difficulty lifting your arm, or weakness?
Don’t ignore it.
See a doctor for an evaluation and an appropriate treatment plan.
Don’t Ignore Shoulder Pain, Difficulty Lifting Your Arm, or Weakness
See a doctor for an evaluation to determine the cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.