Rotator Cuff Tear Specialist
Having shoulder pain can make even the simplest tasks, like brushing your hair, seem unbearably painful. With his extensive training and research in repairing rotator cuff tear injuries, leading orthopedic surgeon Samuel Park, MD of Specialty Orthopaedics is an expert with minimally invasive surgical techniques. Dr. Park offers flexible scheduling at his practice’s location in Hinsdale, Illinois. Book your exam by using the online scheduling system or by calling the clinic.
Rotator Cuff Tear Q & A
What causes a rotator cuff tear?
Your rotator cuff includes a group of tendons that cover the head of your upper arm bone (humerus). These fibrous tissues help you raise and rotate your arm. For some men and women, rotator cuff tears stem from wear and tear over years of repeated motion.
It’s also possible to tear your rotator cuff after going through trauma, such as a slip-and-fall or a car accident. Athletes who participate in throwing or swinging sports, like baseball players, golfers, or tennis players, are also prone to developing tears in their rotator cuffs.
Will I know if I have a rotator cuff tear?
Possibly, although not all torn rotator cuffs cause symptoms. You might have a rotator cuff tear if you experience the following:
- Dull or aching pain deep in your shoulder
- Sleep disturbances from the affected shoulder
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty performing daily tasks
- Arm weakness
You may have one of these issues or a combination of them. No matter the situation, it’s important to seek medical treatment if your shoulder affects your quality of life.
How is a rotator cuff tear treated?
Rotator cuff tear treatment depends on the severity of your tear. Dr. Park offers conservative nonsurgical therapies first when possible.
For instance, with partial tears, you may benefit from going through physical therapy to improve your range of motion. In some cases though, surgery for partial tears might be needed to trim damaged soft tissues and smooth rough bone edges in a process called debridement.
Repairing a complete tear involves stitching the tendon back to its original place on your humerus.
It might be time to consider surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff if you notice the following:
- Pain and discomfort lasting more than six months
- A larger tear that’s over three centimeters
- A decrease in range of motion
- Experience a severe or acute injury
Modern arthroscopic rotator cuff surgeries are minimally invasive, so Dr. Park only has to make a few small incisions. This approach helps reduce your recovery time and minimize your risk of bleeding.
If you have shoulder pain or know you have a torn rotator cuff, schedule an exam at Specialty Orthopaedics. Book through the online scheduler or by calling the clinic.