Your Rotator Cuff Tear Specialists in Nashville
Rotator Cuff Injury Treatment
The rotator cuff is a series of four tendons deep in the shoulder that hold the ball into the socket and provide power and strength for the arm when reaching in the outstretched and overhead positions. When these tendons become torn, it can result in a painful rotator cuff tear that causes you severe pain and loss of mobility.
It's important to receive a rotator cuff tear diagnosis and begin treatment as quickly as possible in order to prevent further damage and long-term complications. Dr. Kaminsky and Dr. Baxter at Pinnacle Surgical Orthopedics in Nashville, TN are skilled experts in the treatment of rotator cuff tears. They utilize advanced arthroscopic techniques to repair torn tendons or remove any inflamed tissue that may be causing pain.
Dr. Kaminsky and Dr. Baxter take a comprehensive approach to treating rotator cuff tear symptoms, working with patients to develop a personalized plan that fits their specific needs and goals. They will explain all the options in detail, from rotator cuff surgery to non-surgical options, and answer any questions you might have so that you can make the best decision for your health.
If you think you may have a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to seek help from the top shoulder surgeon Nashville, TN has to offer. Make an appointment with us today and get the care you need to recover from your injury and get back to doing the activities that make life enjoyable.
Signs of Rotator Cuff Tear: Specialist Test for Rotator Cuff Injury
Treating & Diagnosing Rotator Cuff Tears
A tear of the rotator cuff can occur from an injury due to sports, a fall, or lifting. Aging and simple activities of daily living can also cause wear of the rotator cuff and eventual tearing. A tear can involve one or more of the tendons, and the biceps tendon may also be affected.
Once the rotator cuff is torn, the tendon will not reattach to the bone where it inserts. Non-surgical treatment can reduce symptoms associated with a tear:
- Physical therapy exercises can strengthen the remaining intact rotator cuff and the other muscles around the shoulder.
- Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medication, and cortisone injections can limit the inflammation and pain associated with a rotator cuff tear.
- Some patients find that heat, ice, or topical ointments can also be of help.
- Avoiding overhead activities and reducing repetitive or heavy lifting will minimize stress on the injured tissues.
For most active and healthy people, rotator cuff tear surgery may be a consideration. Because the tear persists, weakness and pain can also persist. Many patients elect to have surgery after discussing their options with their surgeon. Surgery is directed at reattaching the torn tendon back to the bone where it belongs. The tendon is held there tightly with sutures or other implants while it heals over time.
At Pinnacle Surgical Orthopedics, Dr. Kaminsky and Dr. Baxter perform rotator cuff surgeries arthroscopically. Arthroscopy is a surgery in which a scope about the size of a pen is inserted into the shoulder joint to evaluate and treat shoulder conditions. The benefits of arthroscopic surgery can be substantial and include less pain after surgery, shorter recovery time, and an improved appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common signs of rotator cuff tear?
Once the rotator cuff is torn, pain is a frequent complaint. Night pain is especially common, and it is often difficult to lie on the affected shoulder or get a full night’s rest. Weakness of the arm will also occur, since the tendon is often detached from the ball of the shoulder and no longer has its normal function. Reaching out to the side or behind one’s body can be a painful experience, and reaching overhead can also be problematic.
If I need rotator cuff surgery, what will my recovery be like?
Be prepared to spend at least a week out from work to recover from surgery. Most patients start rotator cuff tear physical therapy at that time, and light activities are allowed, particularly at the waist level.
A sling or brace is sometimes used to provide comfort and support to the arm as needed, but not to immobilize or restrain the arm.
Do you accept insurance for rotator cuff injury treatment?
Yes! The team at Pinnacle Surgical Orthopedics accept insurance from a wide range of providers across the Greater Nashville area. To learn more about our list of accepted providers, visit our Insurance page here on the website.
How can I get started with the best shoulder specialist near me?
At Pinnacle, we make it easy to get started on your road to recovery. Just use our online tool to request an appointment, and we’ll schedule you as quickly as we possibly can.