A rotator cuff tear is one of the most common–and talked about–upper extremity conditions. In fact, people believe many myths regarding these injuries. At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, our doctors want to dispel these misconceptions, so patients get the right shoulder treatments at the right time. Let’s explore some of these myths about rotator cuff tears and what the truth really is.
Myth #1 You Must Have Shoulder Surgery to Correct a Rotator Cuff Tear
This is not necessarily true. Rotator cuff injuries vary in severity. Also, the reasons they happen differ from person to person.
Some people with tears are very debilitated from shoulder weakness, pain, and stiffness. Others notice only minor symptoms, and in fact, they may not even think of approaching orthopedic care to resolve them.
That said, if you do pursue shoulder treatment for a possible rotator cuff repair, you will undergo a complete medical evaluation with one of our expert shoulder doctors. The evaluation will include:
- A review of your medical history
- A physical examination
- Discussion of your symptoms, including when and how they may have started
- Imaging, such as X-rays, a CT scan or an MRI
With the results of this complete assessment, your shoulder doctor can diagnose your condition accurately and recommend the treatment plan that is right for you. For some people, that does mean surgery. For others, it may mean simple rest, physical therapy, and pain management.
Myth #2 If You Have a Torn Rotator Cuff, You Cannot Move Your Arm
Many people who have rotator cuff tears can move their arms, though their movement may be limited. In fact, some patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears can still move their arms without pain.
This is possible because the rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff stabilizes the joint and allows for a wide range of shoulder movements.
So, even if one or more of these muscles or tendons are torn, there may be enough function in the remaining ones to allow for some movement. However, continuing to use your arm with a torn rotator cuff can worsen the damage.
Your ability to move your arm also depends on the severity and location of the tear, as well as on your age and overall health. Your shoulder doctor will take all of these factors into consideration when determining the best treatment plan for you.
Myth #3 Recovery From a Rotator Cuff Tear Takes Months
This is not necessarily the case. In fact, many rotator cuff repairs heal quickly. Patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks. However, this timeline can vary depending on the severity of the tear and the type of treatment chosen.
For smaller tears, physical therapy may be enough to strengthen the surrounding muscles and restore function to the shoulder. However, for larger or more severe tears, surgery may be necessary, which can involve a longer recovery period.
That said, today’s arthroscopic repairs feature small incisions, miniaturized tools and cameras, and advanced surgical techniques. Patients heal and rehab much faster than those who undergo traditional open surgeries on the shoulder.
Following the prescribed treatment plan and completing any recommended physical therapy exercises are keys to a timely and successful recovery. These interventions strengthen the shoulder, improve range of motion, and prevent future injuries.
Myth #4 Rotator Cuff Tears Happen Only to Athletes
While avid swimmers, basketball players, and other athletes–both professional and amateur–do tear rotator cuffs, they are not the only individuals sustaining these injuries. In fact, people who reach overhead while working as carpenters and painters often injure their shoulders as they repeatedly reach overhead to complete job tasks.
Age factors into susceptibility, too. Being 40 or older increases your odds of tearing a rotator cuff. After 60, the chances of getting this injury escalate. Older adults have more arthritic changes in their joints and have a decreased blood supply as well.
Your Shoulder Surgeon in Lutherville, MD
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, our professional team includes five board-certified orthopedic specialists who focus only on conditions and injuries affecting the upper extremities. They see and treat many people for rotator cuff repairs.
Treatment plans are fully customized and suited to the patient’s age, overall health, and desired goals for pain management and recovery of function. We can help you determine what care you need for a torn rotator cuff.
So, call us for helpful consultation with one of our shoulder doctors at (410) 396-6232, or request a visit here. We have five Maryland locations to serve you: Lutherville, Clarksville, Pasadena, Westminster, and Bel Air. We look forward to speaking with you about your orthopedic and sports medicine needs.
