Overcoming Rotator Cuff Tears: Here’s what it is and why accurate diagnosis is imperative

Rotator cuff tears are a common shoulder injury that affects millions of people globally each year and significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. This condition typically arises from acute trauma or chronic degeneration of the shoulder’s rotator cuff tendons, which are essential for shoulder stability and movement.

A rotator cuff tear often presents with shoulder pain, weakness and restricted movement. Patients may experience a dull ache deep in the shoulder, difficulty sleeping on the affected side, and challenges in lifting or rotating the arm. In severe cases, the shoulder may become unstable, making it difficult to perform routine tasks.

To diagnose a rotator cuff tear, healthcare providers typically perform a physical examination and imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI or ultrasound. In the case of a 36-year-old female who sustained injuries to her left shoulder and knee after a fall from a two-wheeler, experienced pain and swelling in her shoulder and reported instability in her knee. Initially, she was diagnosed with a fracture in her left shoulder and underwent surgery. Despite this intervention, her shoulder pain persisted, prompting further medical evaluation.

Three weeks later, she visited Kauvery and was diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear caused by an avulsion fracture of the humerus. An avulsion fracture occurs when a fragment of bone is pulled off by a tendon or ligament. In her case, the rotator cuff tendons had torn away from their attachment, contributing to her persistent pain and dysfunction.

The patient underwent a revision shoulder surgery, during which a rotator cuff repair was performed on her. This procedure involves reattaching the torn tendons to the bone, using sutures or anchors to secure them in place. For her knee injury, the doctors performed an arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, a minimally invasive surgery that uses a graft to replace the torn ligament and restore knee stability.

Four months post-surgery, the patient is progressing well. She can now lift her shoulder up to 90 degrees and is expected to achieve full range of motion in the coming months. Her knee has stabilized, and the reconstructed ACL is functioning effectively, allowing her to resume normal activities without instability.

Rotator cuff tears, though challenging, can be effectively treated with timely surgical intervention and rehabilitation. This case in point highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plans in managing complex injuries involving multiple joints. With proper care, patients can recover their mobility and return to their daily routines. The treatment further underscores the advancements in orthopedic surgery.

Dr. Manivannan, Kauvery Hospital Salem

Dr. Manivannan is a distinguished specialist in arthroscopy at Kauvery Hospital Salem. With a focus on joint health, he excels in diagnosing and treating a variety of joint conditions using minimally invasive procedures ensuring accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. His commitment to employing advanced arthroscopic techniques results in quicker recovery times and improved outcomes for individuals seeking relief from joint pain and injuries.

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