Rotator Cuff Tears Treatment in Raleigh, NC
The rotator cuff is the group of tendons in the shoulder joint providing support and enabling wider range of motion. Major injury to these tendons may result in tear of these tendons and the condition is called as rotator cuff tear. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain in middle aged adults and older individuals.
Wake Nonsurgical Ortho is Triangle’s first private practice solely dedicated to Nonsurgical orthopedics. Duke-trained non-surgical orthopedic specialist, Dr. Matthew Kanaan, is dedicated to making sure that patients receive access to non-surgical treatments for rotator cuff tears. Dr. Kanaan will take the time to answer any questions you may have so that he can determine the best treatment option for you. For more information, contact our orthopedic clinic in Raleigh at (919) 719-2270 and schedule an appointment today!
What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?
Rotator cuff tear results from pressure on the rotator cuff from part of the shoulder blade (scapula) as the arm is lifted. It may occur with repeated use of arm for overhead activities, while playing sports or during motor accidents.
What Are The Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear?
Rotator cuff tear causes severe pain, weakness of the arm, and crackling sensation on moving shoulder in certain positions. There may be stiffness, swelling, loss of movements, and tenderness in the front of the shoulder.
How Does Dr. Kanaan Diagnose Rotator Cuff Tears?
Your surgeon diagnoses Rotator Cuff Tear based on the physical examination, X-rays, and imaging studies, such as MRI. Rotator cuff tear is best viewed on magnetic resonance imaging.
A rotator cuff tear may cause shoulder pain, tenderness, reduced range of motion and other potentially disabling symptoms. When seeking to resolve their rotator cuff symptoms, many patients wonder: “Is there a treatment for torn rotator cuff without surgery?” Indeed, there are several nonsurgical treatment options which can help alleviate symptoms. Generally speaking, nonsurgical options are usually prescribed first for partial rotator cuff tears, with surgery being a last-resort option in most cases. Full thickness rotator cuff tears in the active patient will usually require surgery to heal the rotator cuff back to bone.
Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Raleigh, NC
The right treatment for a rotator cuff tear will vary on a case-by-case basis. When creating a treatment plan, an orthopedic physician will consider several things, including the patient’s age and the severity of their injury. For patients seeking treatment for torn rotator cuff without surgery, here are a few options which may be recommended:
- Rest – While it is uncommon for a rotator cuff tear to heal on its own without treatment, rest can help. Taking time off from activities will prevent the tear and associated symptoms from getting worse.
- Physical Therapy – Performing physical therapy exercises designed to strengthen the rotator cuff can go a long way to improve range of motion and overall shoulder function.
- Steroid Injections – Injections can help reduce swelling and manage pain caused by a rotator cuff injury.
- PRP Injections – PRP therapy may reduce pain and restore shoulder function for partial rotator cuff tears. It can be a viable choice for active patients who have not had success with the aforementioned treatments but do not wish to undergo surgery.
Schedule an Appointment for Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment in Raleigh, NC
Generally, patients are advised to try nonsurgical treatment for partial rotator cuff tears as a first-line option. In the event that these therapies fail to offer relief, a patient might consider arthroscopic, open or mini-open surgery (a combination of the other two types). Dr. Kanaan is highly trained at treating rotator cuff tears and will discover the best treatment option for you. For more information, or to schedule an appointment at our office in Raleigh, NC, call (919) 719-2270.