Patients visiting doctors about shoulder pain are increasing at a rate of 4.6% per year. Studies have shown that this is the third most common musculoskeletal complaint and out of this group, 65% include rotator cuff injuries. Every year, 460,00 rotator cuff surgeries are performed in the United States. Despite the prevalence of surgery, it is possible to stay within the population that can avoid it following the non-surgical treatments for rotator cuff injuries described in this article.
The Shoulder and the Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that hold the shoulder in place and allow it to make rotative motion. It covers the head of the humerus, thus helping to raise and rotate the arm. The bursa, a sac between the rotator cuff and the bone on top of the shoulder, provides lubrication so that the rotator cuff tendons can move freely. When they become injured, the bursa becomes inflamed as well.
➡ Related content: What Is Rotator Cuff Surgery?
Rotator Cuff Injuries & Symptoms
The rotator cuff holds the shoulder in place, therefore it can wear out over time and due to repetitive motions. Injuries increase with age, but can appear earlier in those who perform overhead motions. There are factors that contribute to the wear and tear of the rotator cuff, namely repetitive stress and lack of blood supply. Some other times, rotator cuff injuries happen from a single impact, such as a fall or an accident.
Common symptoms of rotator cuff injuries are:
- Pain during the night, once the muscles have cooled after the working day.
- Pain during certain movements.
- Weakness in the arm.
- A crackling sensation when moving the shoulder.
What Non-Surgical Treatments for Rotator Cuff Injuries Are There?
There’s a wealth of nonsurgical treatments available to treat rotator cuff injuries. These aim at strengthening the muscles in the shoulder so as to reduce pain and regain mobility. Eight out of ten patients tend to get better with nonsurgical treatments, which include:
Physical Therapy
The purpose of physical therapy is to both strengthen and stretch the shoulder. On the one hand, strong muscles keep the joint stable, which in turn relieves pain. On the other hand, stretching exercises improve the range of motion, the flexibility and reduce soreness.
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons has compiled a list of useful exercises that can help deal with rotator cuff injuries. However, it is imperative that you consult with a healthcare professional. At any of our Pure Health Clinics locations, you’ll find certified and caring professionals to guide you on your way back to health.
Rest & Habit Modifications
In some cases, inflammation can subside with enough rest. If, after conducting the necessary examination, the doctor sees that it is just some inflammation, they might recommend resting. Sleep provides protection against stress, be that mental or physical. Therefore, since stress impacts inflammation directly, resting can counteract its effects. Also, patients should implement a slight modification to their habits to complement their rest. The healthcare professional will likely recommend not moving the shoulder as much or at least, in the way the patient was doing it before the injury.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Over the counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin reduce swelling and therefore relieve pain.
Orthopedic Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative orthopedics is a cutting-edge approach focusing on the body’s natural ability to heal itself to repair orthopedic afflictions and musculoskeletal disorders. It encompasses different innovative techniques to relieve pain and repair tears and regenerate tissue. Pure Health Clinics’ regenerative orthopedics program takes a holistic approach so as to accelerate the healing process and relieve pain and discomfort.
➡ Related content: What is Regenerative Orthopedics?
Treating Rotator Cuff Injuries at Pure Health
Pure Health Clinics delivers comprehensive orthopedic care at our state-of-the-art facilities, equipped with ultra-modern technology and outstanding healthcare professionals. We are experts and at the forefront of non-invasive and non-surgical alternatives like regenerative medicine and offer a unique medical breakthrough in regenerative orthopedics.
While at any of our facilities, you’ll find care, respect, and understanding. We take pride in the extraordinary level of medical care that we treat our patients with. We look forward to helping you in your journey into a better life.
