Understanding Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Path to Recovery

Shoulder pain can disrupt your daily life, making even simple tasks like lifting, reaching, or sleeping uncomfortable. If you’ve been diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair offers a minimally invasive solution that can relieve pain and restore function. At Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center, our experienced team specializes in advanced procedures to help you get back to the activities you love.

What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of motion. Tears in the rotator cuff can occur due to:

  • Injury: Sudden trauma, such as a fall or heavy lifting.
  • Overuse: Repetitive motion, common in certain sports or jobs.
  • Degeneration: Age-related wear and tear.

Certain activities increase the risk of rotator cuff damage, including:

  • Sports Requiring Overhead Motion: Tennis, baseball pitching, and swimming.
  • Heavy Lifting: Manual labor, weightlifting, or moving heavy objects.
  • Repetitive Strain Activities: Painting, carpentry, or other jobs involving constant overhead work.
  • Sudden Falls: Landing on an outstretched arm during a fall or accident.

Symptoms of a tear include persistent shoulder pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. Left untreated, a torn rotator cuff can worsen over time, potentially leading to chronic pain and joint instability.

Why Choose Arthroscopic Repair?

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to visualize and repair the tear. This advanced technique offers several benefits:

  • Less Invasive: Smaller incisions mean reduced scarring and faster healing.
  • Shorter Recovery Time: Minimally invasive surgery allows patients to return to daily activities sooner.
  • Precise Results: High-resolution imaging ensures accurate repair.

What to Expect During the Procedure

  1. Diagnosis & Imaging: An MRI or ultrasound confirms the tear’s size and location.
  2. Surgical Repair: Using an arthroscope, your surgeon will anchor the torn tendon back to the bone.
  3. Post-Surgical Care: A personalized rehabilitation plan, including physical therapy, ensures optimal recovery.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from arthroscopic rotator cuff repair typically follows these stages:

  • First Few Weeks: Your shoulder will be immobilized in a sling to protect the repair.
  • Physical Therapy: Gradual exercises improve strength and range of motion.
  • Full Recovery: Most patients regain full shoulder function within 4-6 months.

Trust Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center

Our team at Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care. From accurate diagnosis to post-surgical rehabilitation, we ensure that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.

If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or suspect a rotator cuff tear, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward pain-free movement.

Dr. Randal L. Troop

Shoulder, Knee and Sports Medicine
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Dr. Michael S. Howard

Shoulder, Elbow and Upper extremity
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Dr. John E. McGarry

General Orthopedics, Shoulder, Knee and Sports Medicine
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Dr. Earl R. Lund

Shoulder, Elbow, Hand and Wrist
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Dr. Jonathan D. Ringenberg

Shoulder, Knee and Sports Medicine
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