Rotator Cuff and Bone Spurs

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that form a cuff over the shoulder joint. These muscles and tendons hold the arm in its ball-and-socket joint and help the shoulder rotate. The tendons hold the powerful shoulder muscles to the shoulder and arm bones. However, they can be torn from overuse or injury.

In addition to treating an actual tear in the rotator cuff, surgeons use minimally invasive arthroscopy to remove bone spurs or alleviate inflammation around the rotator cuff.

Using a fiberoptic camera inserted into one or two small incisions in the shoulder, surgeons remove damaged or inflamed tissue and evaluate the rotator cuff tendon for repair. The goal is to re-attach the tendon to the bone at the site of the tear. Using sutures and small rivets (called suture anchors), the tendon is reconnected to the bone. The suture anchors dissolve over time so they need not be removed.

Patients who undergo minimally invasive rotator cuff repair can expect less pain and stiffness and a shorter recovery period than those who have conventional surgical repair. A larger tear may necessitate a larger incision to most appropriately treat the condition.

Post-operatively, patients undergo some period of immobilization and must sleep in a recliner to position the shoulder correctly.

Your physician will plan a course of rehab for you that will help to minimize pain as you recover from surgery and begin your course of therapy. Following your surgeon’s orders, including instructions for physical therapy, will result in the best outcome.

Call 215-481-BONE to find a surgeon today.

Sports injuries are some of the most
common causes of rotator cuff conditions.
Our Sports Medicine specialists help you on the road to recovery.