Arthroscopy is a preferred method for treating shoulder problems because it is less invasive than traditional open surgery. This means there is less pain, scarring, and recovery time. It also means that patients can often return to their normal activities more quickly.
Shoulder arthroscopy in Ahmedabad can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including rotator cuff tears, labral tears, shoulder instability, and arthritis. The specific arthroscopy performed will depend on the patient’s condition and the extent of the damage.
Arthroscopy can be used to tighten the ligaments and stabilize the joint. Arthritis can also be treated with arthroscopy by removing damaged tissue and smoothing out rough surfaces.
Rotator cuff repair is a surgical procedure used to treat tears or damage to the rotator cuff, a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for a wide range of motion. The rotator cuff can be injured due to trauma, overuse, or degeneration, leading to pain, weakness, and limited shoulder function. Surgery is often recommended when non-surgical treatments fail to restore normal function or for severe tears.
Some of the very common shoulder injuries that can be treated with a shoulder replacement surgeon in Ahmedabad include:
Rotator Cuff Tear: Rotator cuff tears are a common problem that can be treated with shoulder arthroscopy. During the procedure, the surgeon will use small instruments to repair the torn tendon. This involves reattaching the torn labrum to the shoulder socket using sutures or anchors.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: This occurs when the rotator cuff and other soft tissues in the shoulder become inflamed and irritated due to repeated overhead movements. Arthroscopic surgery can remove any impinging structures and alleviate pain.
Shoulder Instability: Shoulder instability occurs when your shoulder joint becomes loose and dislocates or subluxated. Arthroscopic surgery can repair the damaged ligaments and tissues to stabilize the joint.
Frozen Shoulder: This is a severe condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to release scar tissue and restore range of motion.
Labral Tears: A labral tear occurs when the cartilage that lines the shoulder joint is damaged. Labral tears can also be repaired using arthroscopy. Arthroscopic surgery can repair the damaged labrum and alleviate pain.
Types of Rotator Cuff Tears
- Partial tears: Damage to the tendon, but it’s not fully detached from the bone.
- Full-thickness tears: The tendon is completely torn or pulled off the bone, requiring surgical repair.
Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injury
A rotator cuff injury can present the following symptoms:
- Shoulder pain: Especially during overhead activities or when lying on the affected shoulder.
- Weakness: Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.
- Limited range of motion: Stiffness or inability to raise the arm fully.
- Clicking or popping sound: May be heard or felt when moving the shoulder.
- Night pain: Increased discomfort when lying on the affected side or sleeping.
Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears
Several factors contribute to rotator cuff injuries, including:
- Trauma: A sudden fall, accident, or lifting something too heavy can cause acute tears.
- Degenerative wear and tear: Over time, repetitive shoulder motions (especially in sports or jobs involving overhead activities) can weaken the tendons.
- Overuse injuries: Repeated motions, such as in swimming, tennis, or painting, can strain the rotator cuff.
- Age-related degeneration: The risk of rotator cuff tears increases with age, particularly due to a decrease in blood supply to the tendons.
- Bone spurs: Bony overgrowth in the shoulder joint can rub against the tendons and cause wear and tear.
Treatment Options
Treatment for rotator cuff injuries depends on the severity of the tear, age, and activity level of the patient.
1. Non-Surgical Treatment
For minor or partial tears, non-surgical treatment may be sufficient.
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that cause pain.
- Physical therapy: Strengthening the shoulder muscles and improving flexibility.
- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroid injections: To reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
2. Surgical Treatment (Rotator Cuff Repair)
Surgery is often recommended for larger tears, persistent pain, or in cases where the shoulder function is severely limited.
- Arthroscopic surgery: A minimally invasive technique where small incisions are made, and a camera is used to guide the surgeon in repairing the torn tendon. This reduces scarring and recovery time.
- Open surgery: In cases of more complex tears, open surgery may be required to reattach the tendon to the bone.
- Mini-open repair: Combines both arthroscopic and open surgery to repair the tendon while minimizing incision size.
Post-Surgery Physiotherapy
Rehabilitation after rotator cuff surgery is crucial for regaining shoulder function, strength, and mobility. It typically progresses in phases.
1. Phase 1 (0–6 weeks post-op)
- Goals: Protect the repaired tendon, minimize pain, and prevent stiffness.
- Treatment:
- Wearing a shoulder sling to restrict movement and protect the repair.
- Passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises guided by a physical therapist to gently move the shoulder without muscle activation.
- Use of ice to reduce swelling and discomfort.
2. Phase 2 (6–12 weeks post-op)
- Goals: Restore passive ROM, begin light strengthening, and improve mobility.
- Exercises:
- Gradual progression of passive ROM exercises.
- Shoulder stretches, pendulum exercises, and gentle joint mobilization.
- Initiation of active-assisted ROM exercises, where the patient uses the opposite arm or a therapist helps move the affected shoulder.
3. Phase 3 (3–6 months post-op)
- Goals: Regain full active ROM and start strengthening exercises.
- Exercises:
- Active ROM exercises to improve shoulder function without assistance.
- Strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff, deltoids, and scapular stabilizers using light resistance bands and weights.
- Shoulder stabilization and proprioception exercises to enhance joint control.
4. Phase 4 (6–9 months post-op)
- Goals: Full return to daily activities and sports-specific movements.
- Exercises:
- Advanced strengthening with resistance bands, free weights, and cable machines.
- Plyometrics and functional movement exercises for athletes returning to sports.
- Full integration of sport-specific training and endurance exercises.
Recovery Timeline
- Return to daily activities: 3–6 months after surgery.
- Return to sports: 6–12 months depending on the type of sport and activity level.
Non-Surgical Alternatives
In certain cases, non-surgical methods may effectively manage symptoms, especially for older or less active individuals.
- Physical therapy: Focus on shoulder strengthening and flexibility.
- Medications: NSAIDs and pain management.
- Corticosteroid injections: For inflammation and pain relief.
- Rest: Limiting aggravating activities to allow the tendon to heal.
Prevention of Future Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Strengthening exercises: Regularly working the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles (deltoids, trapezius) helps stabilize the shoulder joint.
- Stretching: Maintaining flexibility in the shoulder joint can reduce strain on the rotator cuff tendons.
- Proper technique: Especially in sports and repetitive overhead motions, ensure proper form to reduce stress on the shoulder.
- Activity modification: Avoiding repetitive overhead activities and adjusting work or sports habits to prevent overuse injuries.
During your first consultation, our shoulder arthroscopy doctor in Ahmedabad will conduct a thorough examination of your injured shoulder and review your medical history. We also take some imaging tests, such as an MRI or X-ray, to get a better look at the inside of your shoulder joint.
Dr. Tirth Vyas is shoulder specialist in Ahmedabad will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. The procedure typically takes about an hour to complete, and you’ll be given anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the surgery.
Conclusion
Rotator cuff repair, along with structured rehabilitation, can significantly restore shoulder function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. A gradual recovery process with a focus on strengthening and range-of-motion exercises ensures the best outcome and minimizes the risk of re-injury.