Rotator Cuff Repair
Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair (ARCR)
Overview
Four muscles and tendons make up the rotator cuff, which stabilizes the shoulder joint and enables arm movement. Shoulder pain and weakness can result from a rotator cuff tear, which can be caused by accident, overuse, or degeneration. Reattaching the torn tendons to the bone frequently requires surgery, especially in cases of significant or complete injuries that are not self-healing.
Symptoms
- Persistent shoulder pain, especially when raising the arm or reaching overhead.
- weakness in the shoulders, particularly when the arm is rotated or raised.
- limited mobility and difficulty doing daily tasks.
- A popping or clicking noise as the shoulders are moved.
Causes
- Acute Injury: The rotator cuff may be torn by trauma from a quick jerking motion, falling on the shoulder, or carrying something too heavy.
- Degenerative Wear and Tear: As people age, experience repetitive stress, or adopt bad posture, their tendons gradually deteriorate.
- Overuse: Repeated motions such lifting, throwing, or putting the arm in an overhead posture (e.g., swimming, tennis).
Diagnosis
- Physical Exam: Assessing the range of motion, pain, and muscle strength in the shoulder.
- Imaging: MRI scans to visualize the tear’s size and location.
Treatment Options
- Non-Surgical: Physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and injections to manage pain and restore function.
- Surgical: Arthroscopic or open surgery to repair torn tendons, using sutures to reattach them to the bone.
