Rotator Cuff Repair
The rotator cuff is the group of tendons and muscles in the shoulder joint providing support and enabling wider range of motion. Major injury to these tendons may result in tearing of these tendons and the condition is called a rotator cuff tear. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain in middle aged adults and older individuals. It may occur with repeated use of the arm for overhead activities, while playing sports or during everyday activities. Rotator cuff tears cause pain, weakness of the arm, and crackling sensation on moving the shoulder in certain positions. There may be stiffness, swelling, loss of movements, and tenderness in the front of the shoulder.
A rotator cuff tear is best viewed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Symptomatic relief may be obtained with conservative treatments - rest, shoulder sling, pain medications, steroid injections and certain exercises. However, surgery is required to actually repair the tendon.