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Most patients with a diagnosed rotator cuff tear will not require surgical treatment. Injuries to the rotator cuff can range from mild tendonitis to a complete tear.
Initial treatment for a rotator cuff injury is rest and anti-inflammatory medication, mainly to control pain. While a true rotator cuff tear will not heal, some partial tears may not significantly disrupt shoulder function and may not require a surgical repair. In cases where the tear is severe, surgery should be considered.
A mild to moderate rotator cuff injury will not require surgery and is commonly treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ice packs, rest, and activity modification and participation in physical therapy rehabilitation program.
The identification of the activity which caused the injury, and the modification of that activity in the future, will help in the healing as well as the prevention of a more severe tear in the future.
A complete tear in the dominant arm of younger, active patients will probably require surgery. This is because a tear in the rotator cuff will not repair itself.
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A rehabilitation program involving physical therapy is suggested after the initial shoulder symptoms have subsided. |
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NSAIDs
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are a group of drugs used to control pain. This category of medications includes both prescription and common over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. NSAIDs are effective for many types of pain that can occur because of inflammation of muscles, joints and bones. The drugs work quickly and people often notice some benefit within a few hours of taking the tablet. However, the complete effectiveness of the drug may not be realized for up to four weeks. For each individual, some varieties of NSAIDs are more effective than others. Often, patients will find that one or two varieties are helpful whereas others may not be as effective in controlling symptoms. It is usually necessary to try several brands and continue with the one that is most suitable. NSAIDs can be used to treat:
Pain resulting from inflammation or swelling.
Pain after injury.
Joint pain and arthritis.
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Hot/Cold Pack
The use of hot and cold packs to relieve pain and inflammation is a common method of treatment for many conditions. When the soft tissue groups become strained or irritated the rotating application of hot and cold can be beneficial.
Cold therapy numbs the nerves to reduce pain and combats swelling by constricting blood vessels and by slowing blood flow to the site of injury. The application of heat to an injury after a few days of cold therapy and after swelling and redness has been reduced promotes the healing process.
Heat therapy speeds up healing by increasing the flow of blood to the site of injury. Heat will also restore flexibility, relieve muscle cramping, and arthritic symptoms.
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Patients who follow the recommended course of therapy, should expect a complete recovery within six to twelve weeks. With a severe shoulder injury where tearing of the tendon has occurred, scar tissue may remain and full range of motion may never be obtained.
Patient's goals, expectations, and lifestyle may need to be altered, with normal activity levels being modified.
A complete recovery is dependent on the severity of the injury, the health and habits of the patient, the pre-injury condition of the shoulder, and the patients compliance with a prescribed physical therapy program or other conditions present.
Maintaining an active exercise program, which includes stretching and strengthening of the shoulder muscles to avoid stiffness and weakness is recommended. Adhesive capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder syndrome) may result if exercise is avoided.
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Poor muscle conditioning or nutrition may increase the risk for further injury or prolong your recovery time.
Improper lifting of heavy objects following an injury, may inhibit healing or result in further injury to the tendons.
The participation in sports involving repetitive motion of this arm and shoulder may predispose the rotator cuff to further injury.
There can be a recurrence of symptoms even after successful non-surgical treatment.
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