Rotator Cuff Injury

A rotator cuff injury is a serious condition affecting the shoulder. There are two types: acute and degenerative. A degenerative tear results from degeneration of the tendon and is usually limited to the dominant arm. An acute tear, on the other hand, can occur as a result of lifting a heavy object with a sudden jerking motion. In both cases, the injury is often accompanied by other shoulder injuries.

Symptoms

One of the most common causes of shoulder pain is a rotator cuff injury. These injuries can range in severity from minor to severe and can occur due to a number of causes. They can result from repetitive use of the shoulder, such as while exercising, playing sports, or working overhead.

Symptoms of rotator cuffed injury include pain and stiffness. It can be extremely difficult to lift the arm, and it can be difficult to extend the arm sideways and in front. In severe cases, a rotator cuff tear can even prevent the affected arm from performing routine tasks. Loss of mobility or a decreased range of motion are also common symptoms. Additionally, the joint may feel stiff or frozen.

Treatments

The first thing to do if you suspect that you’ve suffered a rotator cuff injury is to make an appointment with a doctor. Treatment options for rotator cuff injuries include physical therapy and rest. You may also consider undergoing surgery. The severity of your injury will determine which treatment is right for you.

Rotator cuff injuries are common, but the causes and treatments vary from person to person. Some people have a mild injury that only causes pain and swelling at the shoulder joint. Others, however, suffer from a more serious condition with significant pain and stiffness. A typical treatment for a rotator cuff injury involves applying ice to the affected area for at least one hour. This ice application should be repeated at least five or six times a day to help reduce swelling. Afterwards, the patient should take plenty of rest to minimize the pain and inflammation.

Risk factors

There are a number of risk factors for rotator cuff injury. Some of these factors are related to the type of job a person performs. Researchers have also studied lifestyle factors and metabolic factors in relation to shoulder pain and rotator cuff disease. Although no single factor can be attributed to shoulder pain, knowing these factors can help prevent the development of shoulder pain.

The most common etiology for rotator cuff tears is overuse or micro-trauma. Other risk factors include age, heavy labor, smoking, and genetic predisposition.

Surgery

Surgery for a rotator cuff injury is often necessary after a person has sustained a torn rotator cuff. Generally, a doctor will repair the damaged tendons using an arthroscopic (small incision) procedure. In some cases, a surgeon may opt to use a nearby tendon to replace the torn one. However, some studies have shown that 20 to 40 percent of patients who undergo rotator cuff surgery do not experience full healing.

While most “regenerative medical” clinics offer surgery for rotator cuff injuries, the majority are not fully trained and will result in ineffective results. The best regenerative medical centers will offer advanced stem cell therapy and gene therapies for the treatment of rotator cuff injuries. The Regeneration Center is one such center, and has developed some of the world’s most advanced isolated & enhanced stem cell procedures.