Rotator cuff tears are a common problem, especially in older adults. These injuries often happen because of aging, joint wear and tear, or repeating the same movements over time. While these tears can be painful, there are many ways to treat them. Modern medicine offers options to ease pain, improve movement, and help you feel better overall.
This article will explain what causes rotator cuff tears and detail the treatments that can help.
Rotator Cuff Tear in the Elderly: Treatment Options Explained
Rotator cuff tears in older adults can be either partial or complete. A partial tear means the tendon is damaged but still connected. A complete tear means the tendon is fully separated.
Common signs of a rotator cuff tear include:
- Shoulder pain
- Weak muscles
- Trouble moving the shoulder
- Difficulty doing daily tasks like lifting things or reaching up
If you are dealing with any of these problems, don’t worry. There are treatments that can help you feel better and get back to your normal activities.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many elderly patients can benefit from non-surgical treatment options. This is particularly beneficial when their rotator cuff tear is not severe.
Here are some methods that are commonly effective:
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often one of the first treatments for a rotator cuff tear. It involves guided exercises that make the shoulder muscles stronger, reduce pain, and improve how the shoulder moves.
A physical therapist creates a plan designed to help your shoulder move better without causing more strain. Sticking to these exercises regularly can make a big difference over time.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Doctors often suggest medicines like ibuprofen or naproxen to help with pain and swelling. These are called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They can make daily activities less painful and make it easier to do physical therapy exercises.
Corticosteroid Injections
If pain does not go away, corticosteroid injections might be an option. These are shots given directly into the shoulder to quickly reduce swelling and ease pain. This relief can help you move your shoulder more comfortably. However, these injections are used carefully because having them too often can weaken the tendons.
Activity Modification
It is important to avoid actions that make your shoulder pain worse. Changing small things in your daily routine can help. For example, try not to lift heavy objects or do tasks that require you to reach above your head repeatedly. These simple changes can make a big difference in helping your shoulder heal and feel better.
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical treatments do not work or the rotator cuff is badly damaged, surgery might be needed. Today, surgeries are less invasive. This means older adults can recover faster and have less pain after the procedure.
Arthroscopic Surgery
This type of surgery uses a small camera and tools that are inserted through tiny cuts. The surgeon fixes the rotator cuff without making a big cut. Since the surgery causes less damage to the tissues, recovery is quicker and easier.
Open Repair Surgery
For larger or more difficult tears, open repair surgery may be required. During open repair surgery, the surgeon makes a bigger cut to reattach the tendon to the bone. It takes longer to recover from this procedure compared to arthroscopic surgery. However, it is effective for fixing severe tears.
Reverse Shoulder Replacement
This option is for elderly patients with large rotator cuff tears and arthritis in the shoulder. The surgery changes the ball-and-socket structure of the shoulder. This is so that other muscles can take over for the damaged rotator cuff. This allows for improved movement and reduced pain.
How to Find the Best Orthopedic Doctor for Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment
Choosing the right healthcare provider is a critical part of your recovery process. Here are some tips to ensure you find the best orthopedic doctor near you:
Check Credentials
Look for board-certified orthopedic surgeons with experience in treating rotator cuff injuries. Certification ensures that the surgeon has passed rigorous testing. It also tells you that they adhere to the highest professional standards.
Seek Specialization
Not all orthopedic surgeons specialize in shoulder injuries. Make sure your doctor has expertise in treating rotator cuff tears, as specialized knowledge can lead to better outcomes.
Research Reviews and Testimonials
Read online reviews to understand the experiences of others who have been treated by the surgeon. Positive feedback about expertise, bedside manner, and success rates can help instill confidence in your choice.
Ask Questions
Do not hesitate to ask your doctor specific questions about their recommended treatment plan. For example:
- What is the recovery timeline?
- Are there non-surgical alternatives I should consider first?
- What can I do to improve the success of my treatment?
Consider Local Expertise
If you are in South Florida, you can trust Baylis and Brown Orthopedics for your rotator cuff tear treatment. Dr. Robert Baylis and Dr. Christopher Brown are board-certified orthopedic surgeons with extensive experience. They specialize in advanced techniques to ensure optimal care and recovery.
Rotator Cuff Tear in the Elderly: Treatment in Plantation, FL
Rotator cuff tears may feel debilitating, but they do not have to be permanent obstacles. With the right treatment plan and a trusted orthopedic doctor, you can regain independence in your daily life. Whether you opt for non-surgical treatments or require surgery, know that options tailored to your needs exist.
Dr. Robert Baylis and Dr. Christopher Brown are here to help you every step of the way. Do you need personalized rotator cuff tear in elderly treatment? Call Baylis and Brown Orthopedics at (954) 476-8800 or use our online appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8291-rotator-cuff-tear
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rotator-cuff-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20350225
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rotator-cuff-injury/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350231
