Rotator Cuff Repair

Rotator cuff injuries affect more than two million people in the United States annually. At Advanced Health in Venice, Sarasota, Bradenton, Ellenton, Ocala, Williston, and Cooper City, Florida, expert orthopedic specialists provide rotator cuff repair surgery to ease shoulder pain, restore joint structure and function, and maximize effective healing. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or using the online booking feature today. Walk-ins are also welcome.

What is rotator cuff repair?

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles that form a cuff over your shoulder joint, the joint connecting your upper arm to your torso. Rotator cuff repair is a surgery to repair a torn tendon in your shoulder. 

Rotator cuff injuries can occur because of age-related wear, overuse, heavy lifting, or other factors. See the Advanced Health team at the first sign of extreme or ongoing shoulder discomfort that may indicate a rotator cuff problem.

Why might rotator cuff repair be needed?

You may be a candidate for rotator cuff repair if you struggle with:

• Shoulder weakness
• Difficulty raising and lowering your arm
• Clicking, popping, or crackling sounds
• Pain that worsens at night
• Difficulty lifting items
• Complete rotator cuff tear
• Shoulder pain that hasn’t improved with physical therapy
• A sports or work-related shoulder injury
• Stabbing pain
• Dulling aching

The Advanced Health team may suggest surgery if conservative options haven’t worked and a rotator cuff tear causes significant symptoms with loss of functioning. 

You might not need surgery if you have a partial tear, but a full tear typically causes significant impairment when not treated surgically.

Common causes of rotator cuff tears include bone spurs, age-related wear, overuse, and work injuries. 

Is rotator cuff repair right for me?

The Advanced Health experts discuss your medical history and symptoms to determine if you’re a candidate for rotator cuff repair. They also examine your shoulder joint and might suggest X-rays, an ultrasound, an MRI, or other diagnostic tests to determine the type and extent of injury you have and how to best treat it. 

How should I prepare for rotator cuff repair?

Follow your instructions to prepare for rotator cuff repair. Your surgeon might suggest you stop taking certain medications before the scheduled procedure. Tell them if you develop a cold, flu, or other illnesses and avoid food and drinks the morning of your scheduled appointment. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home afterward.

What should I expect during the procedure?

You typically receive general anesthesia to help you fall asleep before rotator cuff repair. Your surgeon makes a small incision and uses specialized instruments to view the inside of your joint and repair damaged tendons. They then close the incision and take you to a recovery area.

What happens afterward?

Follow all post-surgery instructions after rotator cuff repair. Take any medications as directed, wear a sling during the healing process, and complete physical therapy as instructed. Full recovery might take about 4-6 months. 

Schedule an evaluation at Advanced Health by phone or request one online today to determine if rotator cuff repair is right for you. Walk-ins are also welcome.