Rotator Cuff Tear Doctor in New York

What is a rotator cuff tear?

The rotator cuff refers to the muscles that attach to the bones making up your shoulder joint. This group of muscles helps you to have a free and flexible range of motion in your shoulder. Any time that one of these muscles is damaged due to pulling the muscle or chronic wear and tear, it is known as a rotator cuff injury or a rotator cuff tear. An injury to the rotator cuff results in shoulder pain as well as a lowered range of motion.

In some cases, a rotator cuff tear may require surgical repair in order to fully heal and move properly again. At Specialty Orthopaedics, we have the knowledge and experience to address many kinds of shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff tears. Together, we’ll determine the cause of your shoulder pain and develop a treatment that will work for you.

What types of rotator cuff tears are there?

There are two common types of rotator cuff tears, including the following:

• Partial rotator cuff tear – occurs when the tissues are only torn in one area, making surgery necessary only when the tear is severe and cannot heal on its own
• Full rotator cuff tear – occurs when the tissues are completely broken into two pieces, requiring surgical reattachment for proper healing

symptoms of a rotator cuff tear

It’s important to visit an orthopedic specialist who has experience with rotator cuff injuries and repairs if you are suffering from one or more of the following symptoms:

• Shoulder pain
• Shoulder weakness
• Shoulder tenderness
• Inability or difficulty lifting arm
• Difficulty sleeping due to shoulder discomfort
• Cracking or popping when moving the shoulder

How is a rotator cuff tear diagnosed?

Our orthopedic physicians in NY have years of experience evaluating and diagnosing the full range of shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tears. Our approach to your health is personal, so we take our time getting to know your past medical history and understanding all of your current symptoms and concerns before making our diagnosis for your shoulder issue.

Often, we are able to make an accurate diagnosis of a rotator cuff injury by examining your shoulder and discussing your symptoms with you. However, to determine the extent of damage / injury to your shoulder, we may recommend imaging tests, including:

• X-rays
• CT scans
• MRI scans

Treatment for a rotator cuff tear

Whenever your rotator cuff tear is only partial and is not severe, we recommend conservative treatment approaches. These might include:

• Rest
• Ice
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Injections

If your rotator cuff tear is severe or does not heal on its own, we may recommend a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery. This option allows your orthopedic surgeon to manually reconnect the tissues so they can properly heal. There are also new regenerative tissue techniques including stem cells and bio-inductive patch implants to promote healing and recovery.

VIDEO: Shoulder Arthroscopy for Rotator Cuff Repair

Please explore our shoulder arthroscopy video below.

Schedule a Consultation with us!

If you are experiencing symptoms of a rotator cuff tear, visit Specialty Orthopaedics. Our New York orthopedic practice is home to a team of fellowship-trained orthopedists in a variety of orthopedic specialty areas. We offer comprehensive treatment for musculoskeletal disorders in a caring and responsive clinical atmosphere. Give us a call at 914.686.0111 or fill out the form on this page to schedule your appointment today. Out talented team of doctors look forward to serving you!