Rotator Cuff Strains And Tears: Your Asheboro, N.c. Plan For Treatment And Recovery

Rotator cuff strains and tears are a common source of pain for adults

. In 2008, rotator cuff issues were the reason behind two million visits to sports medicine doctors in the U.S. An injury to this area leaves the shoulder weak, which affects simple activities like getting dressed or combing your hair. The orthopedic surgeons in Asheboro, N.C. should examine pain during these activities.

When one of the tendons of the rotator cuff is torn, it is no longer fully attached to the humerus head. Rotator cuff strains and tears can begin as simple fraying, but damage will progress and the tendon may tear when lifting something. The rotator cuff can also tear if you move it the wrong way. A tear could be a partial or full tear, and the severity may determine whether you need orthopedic surgery.

Causes of rotator cuff strains and tears

oAcute: Rotator cuff strains and rotator cuff tears can occur due to a fall on an outstretched arm or by lifting something heavy.

oDegenerative: Most strains or tears occur over time. Rotator cuff tears are more commonly seen in a person's dominant arm. Many factors can contribute to chronic or degenerative rotator cuff strains and tears.

oRepeating the same motions over and over stresses the tendons. Certain sports and jobs can contribute to this.

oAs we age, the blood supply to the area lessens, reducing your body's ability to fight off injury or repair slight damage.

oBone spurs can be a contributing factor. As you lift your arm, a bone spur would rub across the tendon, which over time would cause a tear.

Risk factors

Because the majority of rotator cuff strains and tears occur as a result of typical wear and tear, those over 40 tend to be at higher risk. People who perform constant overhead activities and lifting are at a greater risk, as are those who participate in sports like baseball (pitchers) and tennis. A traumatic fall could also cause a strain or tear.

Symptoms of rotator cuff strains or tears

Common symptoms of rotator cuff strains and tears are pain when lying on the injured shoulder, pain when lowering or lifting the arm, weakness when rotating the arm or a crackling sensation or noise when the shoulder is moved certain ways. A tear arising from a fall would be accompanied by intense and immediate pain.

Examination and testing of your rotator cuff

Your Asheboro, N.C. orthopedic surgeon will discuss your medical history and perform an examination. An X-ray and MRI may also be ordered.

Treatments for rotator cuff injuries

oNon-surgical: Most orthopedic and sports medicine physicians will at least attempt a non-surgical treatment before opting for orthopedic surgery, mainly because there is no evidence that performing surgery soon after an injury is any more beneficial than doing it down the road.

oRest: Limit overhead activities and rest the affected area. If you are given a shoulder sling, use it!

oModify activities: Anything that causes shoulder pain should be avoided

oTake NSAIDS: Naproxen and ibuprofen work well to reduce swelling and pain

oSurgical: If non-surgical methods do not help, the sports medicine doctors in Asheboro, N.C. may suggest surgery. Continued pain and having an occupation, which requires overhead movements, are prime indications for surgery.

by: Shirley G. Dudley

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