Each year, more than three million Americans experience a rotator cuff injury. Though common, without prompt intervention and treatment, a rotator cuff injury can affect your ability to work, exercise, or participate in other activities you enjoy. At Bluewater Orthopedics, the experienced team of orthopedic surgeons provides comprehensive care for rotator cuff injuries. To make an appointment at the practice in Crestview, Destin, or Niceville, Florida call the nearest office or click the online booking tool today.
A rotator cuff injury refers to damage affecting the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that hold your upper arm bone in your shoulder’s socket. Anyone can experience a rotator cuff injury, but they’re especially common in older individuals, particularly those who work physically demanding jobs that require frequent overhead movements.
Often, rotator cuff injuries occur as a result of wear-and-tear. When caught early on, they’re possible to manage without surgical intervention.
Telltale symptoms of a rotator cuff injury include:
As the injury progresses, you might also experience pain when performing routine tasks like brushing your teeth, combing your hair, or taking a shower.
Most shoulder pain subsides on its own with conservative measures of care, like ice, rest, and over-the-counter medication. If your symptoms persist for more than a few days or interfere with your job or quality of life, contact the team at Bluewater Orthopedics.
There’s no way to prevent a rotator cuff injury entirely, but it’s possible to significantly reduce your risk. The team at Bluewater Orthopedics recommends strengthening the muscles in your chest, shoulders, and upper arms. It’s just as important to strengthen the muscles at the back of your shoulder, as they provide balance.
Following an in-office exam and discussion of your symptoms, your Bluewater Orthopedics provider can recommend exercises that align with your needs.
To diagnose a rotator cuff injury, your Bluewater Orthopedics provider physically examines your shoulder, gently pressing on it to pinpoint areas of swelling or tenderness. They also have you move your arm in different positions to test your shoulder strength and range of motion.
If physical observation doesn’t provide enough information, the team might also order diagnostic imaging like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. These screening techniques provide detailed images of the hard and soft tissues in your shoulder.
Treatment of a rotator cuff injury depends on the severity of your symptoms and their effects on your daily life. The team at Bluewater Orthopedics might recommend:
If your symptoms persist and fail to improve, surgical intervention might be necessary. There are several types of surgery for rotator cuff injuries, including shoulder arthroscopy, open tendon repair, and shoulder replacement.
To learn more about the treatment options for a rotator cuff injury, make an appointment at Bluewater Orthopedics by calling the nearest office or by clicking the online booking tool today.
