Shoulder conditions & treatments
Rotator Cuff
The "rotator" cuff is a collective term for a group of four muscles and their associated tendons that join together within the shoulder. These four muscles originate at different points on the shoulder blade and insert into the upper arm bone (humerus), as a common tendon. A healthy rotator cuff gives the shoulder strength, flexibility, and stability. Injury to the rotator cuff may result from aging, trauma, repetitive stress or overexertion of a weakened shoulder muscle. Injury to the rotator cuff can result in continuous pain, pain at night, tenderness and the loss of shoulder mobility. Learn more about rotator cuff conditions and treatments.
Rotator cuff impingement
Impingement syndrome refers to the mechanical compression and/or wear of the rotator cuff tendons as they pass under the bony structure of the shoulder. This compression can cause inflammation of the subacromial bursa and other structures of the joint, resulting in a persistent increase in pain, tenderness, and loss of motion in the affected shoulder.
Rotator cuff repair
A large tear may require surgery; the rotator cuff will not repair itself without surgical repair. Younger people, more active people and those that have involvement of their dominant extremity will probably require surgical repair of their cuff tear to restore function and decrease pain.
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique where small incisions are made at the shoulder. One incision is for the arthroscope, a small flexible tube that allows the surgeon to see inside the joint, and the other incision is gives access for the surgical instruments. Compared to the traditional open surgical procedure this technique involves less trauma to the muscles which allows for better joint stability and quicker, less painful recovery.
Other Conditions