Rotator cuff surgery can be performed arthroscopically by the fellowship-trained surgeons of Tidewater Orthopaedics (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons), proudly serving the Hampton, Newport News, and Williamsburg, Virginia areas. If you choose Tidewater Orthopaedics for the treatment of your rotator cuff tear, you will be cared for by a subspecialist who focuses his or her practice exclusively on the shoulder. Why is this important? Specialization – whether it is in treating conditions of the shoulder, hand, hip, spine, or foot – can significantly enhance the level of care, lower the risk of complications, and ultimately improve the outcome.
Contrary to popular belief, a rotator cuff injury is more likely to result from ongoing wear and tear than trauma. Therefore, it’s important to pay close attention to persistent shoulder pain and consult with a physician if the discomfort does not improve after about two weeks of rest and anti-inflammatory medication. An orthopaedic specialist at Tidewater Orthopaedics can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether you could benefit from rotator cuff surgery or another form of treatment.
Whether your shoulder was injured because of an accident in Hampton, you are coping with shoulder arthritis in Williamsburg, or you experience shoulder pain while golfing in Newport News, VA, it’s important to note that not every patient requires surgical intervention. Sometimes, cortisone injections can effectively reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort, and physical therapy can strengthen the shoulder muscles enough to compensate for an injury. In the event that surgery offers the best option for pain relief and enhanced mobility, arthroscopic rotator cuff surgery is a minimally invasive approach that can be a good alternative for some patients. In general, the procedure entails:
Whether or not a patient undergoes rotator cuff surgery, physical therapy is often a key component of the treatment of rotator cuff injuries. At Tidewater Orthopaedics, our patients have access to a dedicated team of in-house physical therapists who work directly with our physicians to develop and implement customized treatment plans, which may incorporate a variety of therapeutic exercises, manual techniques, and functional activities.
To learn more about rotator cuff surgery and other treatment options for chronic shoulder pain, please call (757) 276-3743 to contact the orthopaedic experts at Tidewater Orthopaedics in Hampton or Williamsburg, VA, today.