If you’re like most people, you probably pay very little attention to your shoulders unless or until an issue arises in one of these large joints. At that point, the discomfort can make it difficult to concentrate on anything else.
For residents of the Westwood area of Los Angeles, California, or those who call Downtown home, rotator cuff issues can be resolved through the care of Kristofer J. Jones, MD.
We’re pleased to offer the following information to help you better understand if your rotator cuff injury might be a good fit for surgical treatment.
“Rotator cuff” is the term used to refer to the group of muscles and tendons that surround your shoulder and hold your upper arm bone within the socket in your shoulder blade. Because these muscles and tendons work in tandem to enable arm movement, they’re referred to as one integrated unit, the rotator cuff.
Your shoulders perform a wide range of tasks, even though you may not often think about how this part of your body functions. Every time you raise or lower your arms, carry items, shrug, swim, or hug someone you love, your rotator cuff is making it happen.
While these large joints are incredibly strong and durable, they can also sustain damage. Some of the signs you might have a rotator cuff injury include:
These symptoms can be mild at the beginning and gradually worsen over time. Or, in the case of a sudden traumatic injury, they can be significant right from the start.
Your body has a powerful ability to heal itself. Some minor rotator cuff tears or strains will heal on their own with sufficient time and rest. Others may not fully recover, but their symptoms can be managed sufficiently to avoid the need for surgery.
If a rotator cuff injury is severe, the only way to achieve lasting relief is through surgical repair. Here are some of the instances in which surgery is the best choice:
There are several types of rotator cuff surgery. Some are less invasive than others. Your ideal treatment path depends on a number of factors, including the degree of damage, the quality of the surrounding tissue, and your overall health.
If surgery is the right fit for your needs, Dr. Jones will discuss your options. You’ll learn what to expect in terms of treatment timelines, recovery time, and expense. When you’re ready to learn more, feel free to reach out to the office by phone or spend a few moments on the online booking page to find a time that fits your busy schedule.
