Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment in Kirkland, WA

A torn rotator cuff is a fairly common injury, as well as a painful one. These tears can occur as either a partial, or total tear, which may or may not require surgical treatment depending upon the severity of the individual case. When the rotator cuff is torn, weakness and pain can occur. Over time, especially with a large rotator cuff tear that is not repaired, a certain type of arthritis can occur. The rotator cuff can cause shoulder pain without being torn due to tendonitis, bursitis/impingement or calcific tendonitis.

Dr. Camille Clinton is a highly trained orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist with extensive experience diagnosing and treating patients throughout the Seattle area for rotator cuff tears. Call (425) 899-4810 to schedule an appointment at our orthopedic surgery office in Kirkland, WA today!

Rotator Cuff Tear Symptoms

Some people that suffer a rotator cuff tear will not experience any pain, but this is not often the case. Typically, individuals will notice symptoms that gradually worsen over the course of a few days or weeks.

At first, the pain will likely radiate from the front of the shoulder before spreading down the arm. This pain will become more intense when the arm is lifted or lowered and may even begin to disrupt your sleep.

In cases of more severe injury, the pain will be immediate. It will also be instantly difficult for the person to move their shoulder joint in any way as there is no longer anything holding the shoulder muscles to the bone.

Potential Causes of Rotator Cuff Tear

Rotator cuff tears are most commonly caused by:

  • Repetitive motions
  • Multiple injuries to the rotator cuff
  • Heavy lifting
  • Falling onto the arm or shoulder
  • Athletic activities, especially those involving lots of shoulder movement like tennis or baseball
  • Shoulder impingement syndrome
rotator-cuff-tear.

Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery

The goal of rotator cuff repair is to improve pain, function, and mobility. We treat rotator cuff injuries arthroscopically, which allows for a quicker recovery and less postoperative pain. During surgery, a camera is placed through a small incision. Through additional small incisions, instruments are placed that allow us to place stitches through the rotator cuff and tie it back down to the bone. Patients are in a sling for 6 weeks following surgery. Strengthening is usually started 3 months after surgery.

Request a Consultation

Dr. Camille Clinton is a fellowship-trained board-certified orthopedic surgeon that specializes in treating conditions that affect the shoulder. (425) 899-4810 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Clinton today!

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