How to Find a Rotator Cuff Tear Doctor Who Understands Your Injury

Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common shoulder injuries, particularly among athletes and older adults. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for a wide range of motion. When these tendons become torn or damaged, it can lead to pain, weakness, and limited mobility. While traditional surgery may be necessary for large or complex tears, Rotator Cuff Tear Doctor in Houston, Texas increasingly recommend minimally invasive treatments for many patients. These approaches aim to reduce recovery times, minimize scarring, and improve overall outcomes. Here’s a closer look at the various minimally invasive options available for rotator cuff tears.

1. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Before considering more invasive options, doctors often recommend physical therapy as the first line of treatment. In many cases, especially with smaller tears or partial tears, targeted physical therapy can help strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve shoulder function. Physical therapists focus on exercises that stabilize the shoulder and increase flexibility, which can reduce pain and improve mobility.

Patients are often instructed to perform exercises that gently restore the range of motion, followed by strengthening exercises to support the shoulder joint. In some cases, physical therapy alone may be sufficient to address the tear, or it may prepare the patient for other interventions.

Eric F Berkman MD – Top Rated Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas. Specializing in treating various orthopedic conditions of shoulder, elbow, knee, hand, and foot and ankle. Orthopedic injuries are common in motor vehicle accidents, sports and in daily activities. He offers a comprehensive and high quality medical care for his patients. Dr Berkman offers the best possible treatment and utmost care to each individual to restore freedom of movement and relieve the pain of diseased and degenerative joints.

2. Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections are a common minimally invasive treatment used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with rotator cuff injuries. These injections can offer temporary relief, especially in cases where the tear is causing significant discomfort but isn’t yet severe enough to require surgery.

By delivering a potent anti-inflammatory medication directly to the site of injury, corticosteroid injections can reduce swelling and provide pain relief, allowing patients to engage in physical therapy more effectively. However, these injections are typically not recommended as a long-term solution, as repeated use can weaken the tendon and potentially delay healing.

3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is an innovative, minimally invasive treatment that harnesses the body’s own healing powers. PRP involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting this concentrated solution into the site of the rotator cuff tear.

Platelets contain growth factors that are believed to help stimulate tissue healing and reduce inflammation. While research is still ongoing, early studies suggest that PRP can be an effective treatment for promoting tendon healing and reducing pain in patients with partial rotator cuff tears. PRP therapy is often used in conjunction with physical therapy to enhance recovery.

4. Arthroscopic Surgery

In cases where the tear is more substantial or conservative treatments fail, arthroscopic surgery is a popular minimally invasive option. This procedure involves making small incisions around the shoulder joint through which a tiny camera and specialized surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon can then visualize the tear and repair the tendon using precise techniques.

Arthroscopic surgery is less invasive than traditional open surgery, resulting in smaller scars, reduced risk of infection, and faster recovery times. In many cases, patients can return to normal activities within a few months, depending on the extent of the injury.

5. Tenotomy and Tenodesis

For patients with rotator cuff tears involving biceps tendon damage, procedures like tenotomy and tenodesis may be considered. In a tenotomy, the damaged tendon is cut and allowed to heal in a shortened position. In a tenodesis, the tendon is reattached to a different location on the bone. Both procedures can be done arthroscopically, offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery.

Minimally invasive treatments for rotator cuff tears offer promising alternatives to traditional surgery. Whether through physical therapy, injections, PRP therapy, or arthroscopic procedures, many patients can find relief and regain mobility with less recovery time and fewer complications. As with any medical treatment, it’s important to consult with a doctor who specializes in shoulder injuries to determine the most appropriate course of action based on the severity of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. With advances in minimally invasive techniques, many individuals with rotator cuff injuries can expect faster recovery times and better overall outcomes.