Without the rotator cuff, your shoulder would constantly pop out of its shallow ball-and-socket joint. In fact, there’s no joint in your body that’s more complex or more flexible. However, that flexibility comes at a cost.
One of the most common shoulder injuries is a rotator cuff tear, so leading orthopedic surgeon Michael J. Bercik Jr. sees all levels of these injuries through his practice. One of the most frequently asked questions about rotator cuff tears is: Will it heal on its own?
A covering of muscles and tendons, the rotator cuff is essential for rotation and lifting of the arm.
As you get older, rotator cuff issues become more common. If you’re an athlete, you are also at risk of serious rotator cuff injuries.
A rotator cuff tear occurs when a tendon pulls away from the bone due to traumatic injury or overuse.
Over 2 million Americans experience rotator cuff problems, including tears, annually. However, the number of tears could be even higher since some people have no symptoms.
Symptoms include:
Rotator cuff tears can cause sharp, stabbing pain or dull aches. Acute injuries tend to create intense pain, while conditions that degenerate over time may start as aches that worsen over time.
Most rotator cuff tears don’t heal spontaneously without surgery. However, conservative treatment may reduce inflammation and pain and increase shoulder strength, improving the joint's function.
However, if you play sports or work a job that places repeated strain on the shoulders, reinjury becomes an increasing risk over time. Dr. Bercik frequently recommends rotator cuff surgery for his patients who may reinjure their shoulders due to their lifestyle.
Every injury is unique, and each has its best approach to treatment. Dr. Bercik is skilled in minimally invasive, mini-open, and open surgical techniques, so you’ll receive a procedure that best matches your condition.
For an examination and assessment of your rotator cuff, call 717-560-4200 to book with the nearest of our three offices, or use the Book Online link on this page. You can get past the limitations of rotator cuff damage, so schedule your visit now.