Rotator Cuff Tear

Rotator Cuff Tear Specialist

A rotator cuff tear may occur with repeated use of the arm for overhead activities, while playing sports, or from a motor accident. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain in middle-aged and older individuals. Rotator cuff tear specialist, Dr. Kelechi Okoroha provides diagnosis and individualized non-surgical and surgical management for rotator cuff tear in Minneapolis. Contact Dr. Okoroha’s team for an appointment today!

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What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

A rotator cuff is a group of tendons in the shoulder joint that provides support and enables a wide range of motion. A major injury to these tendons may result in rotator cuff tears. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain in middle-aged and older individuals.

What are the Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears?

A rotator cuff tear may occur with repeated use of the arm for overhead activities, while playing sports, or from a motor accident.

When a rotator cuff tear is suspected it is important to schedule an orthopedic consultation for proper examination and care. Dr. Kelechi Okoroha is a rotator cuff specialist who provides detailed examination and care for patients with rotator cuff tears in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka, Minnesota and beyond.

What are the Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears?

A rotator cuff tear causes severe pain, weakness of the arm and crackling sensation on moving the shoulder in certain positions. There may be stiffness, swelling, loss of movement and tenderness in the front of the shoulder.

How is a Rotator Cuff Tear Diagnosed?

Dr. Okoroha diagnoses a rotator cuff tear based on a physical examination and X-rays. A rotator cuff tear is best viewed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

What are the Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears?

Conservative treatment

The conservative treatment options for rotator cuff tears are:

• Rest
• Shoulder Sling
• Pain medication
• Injection of a steroid (cortisone) and a local anesthetic in the subacromial space of the affected shoulder to relieve inflammation and pain
• Exercises

Surgery for Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff repair may be performed by open or arthroscopic surgery. In arthroscopy, the space for rotator cuff tendons will be increased and the cuff tear is repaired using suture anchors. These anchor sutures help in attaching the tendons to the shoulder bone. Following the surgery, you may be advised to practice motion and strengthening exercises.