Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Injury Repair at Grand Rapids Orthopedics
Rotator cuff surgery is a procedure designed to repair tears in the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow it to move freely. Over time or due to injury, these tendons can become damaged or torn, leading to pain, weakness, and limited shoulder movement. Common causes of rotator cuff injuries include repetitive overhead movements (as seen in sports like tennis or professions involving heavy lifting), degeneration of the tendons due to aging, or a sudden traumatic event like a fall.
In cases where the rotator cuff is severely damaged, surgery may be required to reattach the torn tendons to the bone. This procedure is often performed arthroscopically, meaning it involves small incisions and the use of a camera to guide the surgeon. Recovery from rotator cuff surgery can take several weeks, with patients typically needing to wear a sling and gradually regain mobility through physical therapy.
Rotator Cuff Surgery & Recovery Times
One of the areas where patients report the highest satisfaction with us is arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Our advanced techniques lead to less discomfort and quicker recovery, resulting in excellent outcomes. Over the past decade, there have been significant advancements in shoulder arthroscopy. Injuries that were once deemed irreparable, like certain rotator cuff tears, can now often be treated with minimally invasive procedures.
We've also seen progress in labral repair, a procedure that addresses the cartilage ring (labrum) that stabilizes the shoulder joint. Our innovative bicep tenodesis procedure allows us to treat issues without sacrificing shoulder function, making the recovery process smoother and quicker for patients.
Most arthroscopic shoulder surgeries are now outpatient procedures, taking less than an hour. Patients typically go home the same day and experience minimal discomfort with faster rehabilitation. In many cases, formal physical therapy isn't even necessary, and patients return to their normal activities much sooner.
At Grand Rapids Orthopedics, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing shoulder pain. We use X-rays, and if needed, MRIs, but often the information we need comes from your medical history, a physical exam, or diagnostic injections. This approach can help avoid more expensive tests.
Thanks to these advancements, the recovery process has improved dramatically. Instead of the large, cumbersome orthotic devices once used, most patients now only need a simple sling for a few weeks. The length of sling use depends on the procedure: labral repairs may allow for immediate function, while rotator cuff repairs might require up to six weeks in a sling. Regardless, patients frequently report little discomfort and are back to their daily routines much sooner.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain, we encourage you to reach out to our office. We can expedite the evaluation process and get you back to feeling your best, faster than most other clinics.
