What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and enabling a wide range of arm movements. Rotator cuff tears are among the most common shoulder injuries, causing significant pain and functional limitation. Dr Shahrukh Khan at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi provides expert rotator cuff treatment including arthroscopic repair.
Types of Rotator Cuff Tears
Partial Tear
The tendon is damaged but not completely severed. Conservative treatment is often successful.
Full-Thickness Tear
The tendon is completely torn, creating a hole. Most full-thickness tears require surgical repair for full function.
Causes
- Acute injury: falling on outstretched arm, lifting heavy object
- Degenerative tear: gradual wear and tear over years
- Repetitive overhead movements: swimming, tennis, painting
- Age (most common after age 40)
Symptoms
- Deep ache in the shoulder, especially at night
- Difficulty and pain with overhead movements
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- Crackling sensation with shoulder movement
- Difficulty reaching behind the back
Treatment
Conservative Treatment
- Rest and activity modification
- NSAIDs and pain relief
- Physiotherapy and rotator cuff strengthening
- Corticosteroid injections
Surgical Treatment: Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Small portals around the shoulder allow the surgeon to reattach the torn tendon to the bone using anchors. This minimally invasive approach results in faster recovery than open surgery.
Recovery After Rotator Cuff Repair
- Sling for 4–6 weeks
- Passive range of motion exercises: weeks 2–6
- Active exercises: 6–12 weeks
- Strengthening: 12–16 weeks
- Full recovery: 6–12 months
Expert shoulder treatment at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
