Personalized, Expert Rotator Cuff Repair with Dignity Health

Rotator cuff surgery, or rotator cuff repair, mends a torn or damaged rotator cuff tendon in the shoulder. This tendon controls the motion of your shoulder joint. After rotator cuff repair with Dignity Health, you will be able to move and use your shoulder without pain.

Rotator cuff injuries are common, but not all of them require surgery. Our experienced orthopedists and orthopedic surgeons may recommend shoulder surgery to treat a rotator cuff tear if:

  • The tear has been causing pain for more than six months.
  • You can’t use your shoulder normally.
  • The tear is smaller than two inches and only one tendon is injured.
  • The tear is from a recent injury.
  • Nonsurgical management like physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or oral or injected corticosteroids hasn’t worked.

Your Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery in the Sacramento Region

At Dignity Health, rotator cuff surgery can be an open, mini-open, or minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure. Mini-open surgery combines minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques with a smaller open procedure. Mini-open and arthroscopic approaches result in smaller incisions, less pain, and a shorter recovery period than open surgery. Depending on the type of surgery, you may go home the same day or spend a few nights in the hospital. 

You may have to wear a sling to keep your shoulder stable while it is healing. You’ll also need physical therapy as part of your recovery. Best outcomes are achieved by patients who complete the full course of physical therapy. Gradually, you’ll regain shoulder function, strength and stability. It may take three to twelve months for you to fully recover. 

Possible risks of rotator cuff surgery include detachment of your deltoid muscle, nerve damage, re-injury of the rotator cuff tendon, and shoulder stiffness. The general risks of surgery include reactions to blood clots, infections, anesthesia, and bleeding. Talk with your doctor about your specific risks and how to prevent and treat them if they occur.

Rotator Cuff Repair Recovery

After rotator cuff surgery, most people return to their favorite activities and sports. However, surgery won’t prevent future shoulder injuries. 

You can protect your shoulder and avoid more problems by:

  • Carrying heavy objects close to your body
  • Keeping pressure off your shoulder by sleeping on the opposite side
  • Practicing good posture
  • Strengthening your shoulder muscles with recommended exercises
  • Using proper body mechanics when lifting heavy objects

The orthopedics professionals at Dignity Health are here to provide you with quality orthopedic services and rotator cuff repair in the Sacramento region.

Take the Next Step

If you think orthopedic surgery may be the solution for your pain, call Dignity Health in Sacramento at (916) 851-2511 to request a consultation today or request an appointment online.