A torn rotator cuff typically heal with only minimal or no lasting effects. The conservative treatment is usually comprised of anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. For the specific types of tears on the rotator cuff or those that does not seem to react well to conservative modes of treatment, surgical overhaul of the rotator cuff as well as the debridement of the joint area is required. By enrolling in a first aid course today, you can learn how to manage the symptoms.
Conservative treatment options
The treatment of a torn rotator cuff often involves a long period of resting the shoulder which oftentimes lasts as long as 4-9 months or even more. During this period, there are limitations to the activities that the individual can engage in but full immobility is not recommended.
The doctor will prescribe range of motion exercises to help stimulate the movement as well as repair the affected muscle and tendons. Additionally, anti-inflammatory and pain medications can help hasten the recovery by minimizing the pain and inflammation that occur with a rotator cuff tear.
Surgical intervention
For acute injuries or those that does not seem to respond well to conservative treatment, surgical intervention is often used to repair the rotator cuff and get rid of any debris from the initial injury.
In most cases, arthroscopic surgery has been commonly used and provides the best results in terms of restoring the function and recovery time. After the arthroscopic surgery, the rehabilitation period comprised of strengthening exercises helps to increase the range of motion of the shoulder. In some cases of tears, surgery is always the initial choice particularly major wounds or specific forms of partial tears on the rotator cuff.
Chronic rotator cuff injuries
When it comes to chronic cases of rotator cuff injuries, they can be a challenge to both the individual and the healthcare professional. Oftentimes, a chronic case of rotator cuff tear starts with a minor injury which leads to the inflammation of the sacs that are responsible for lubricating the shoulder joint. Due to repeated injury, it can progress to the inflammation of the tendon part of the rotator cuff and eventually to a tear on the rotator cuff itself.
Chronic cases of tears on the rotator cuff frequently respond to proper care, thus careful assessment is required for those who are suffering from long-term shoulder pain and reduced range of motion of the shoulder. In some instances, the muscle of the shoulder that has rotator cuff injury appears minor without any injury even before weakness is perceived by the individual.
Considerations with the age
Based on studies, it was discovered that the rate of recovery on both older and those younger than 60 years old are quite similar. Since tears are quite common among the elderly, age is not generally an indicator of long-tern effects of a rotator cuff tear.
Individuals of any age who suffer from shoulder pain with reduced mobility who does not respond to physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications must consult a doctor for proper assessment and treatment.