Specialised treatment for rotator cuff tear
Rotator cuff is the group of tendons in the shoulder joint providing support and enabling wider range of motion.
Major injury to these tendons may result in tear of these tendons and the condition is called as rotator cuff tear. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain in middle aged adults and older individuals.
rotator cuff tear frequently asked questions
What are the signs and symptoms of Rotator cuff tear?
Rotator cuff tear causes severe pain, weakness of the arm, and crackling sensation on moving shoulder in certain positions. There may be stiffness, swelling, loss of movements, and tenderness in the front of the shoulder.
What are the causes of Rotator cuff tear?
It may occur with repeated use of arm for over head activities, while playing sports or during motor accidents.
How is Rotator cuff tear diagnosed?
Rotator cuff tear is best viewed on magnetic resonance imaging.
What are the treatment options for Rotator cuff tear?
Symptomatic relief may be obtained with conservative treatments – rest, shoulder sling, pain medications, steroidal injections and certain exercises. However surgery may be required in order to fix the torn tendon back to the shoulder bone. Rotator cuff repair may be performed by open surgery or an arthroscopic procedure. In an arthroscopy procedure space for rotator cuff tendons will be increased and the cuff tear is repaired sometimes using suture anchors. These anchoring sutures help in attaching the tendons to the shoulder bone. Following the surgery you will be advised to practice range of motion and strengthening exercises in a graduated fashion, usually with the help of physiotherapy.
Shoulder treatments
Biceps Tenodesis & Tenotomy
Biceps tenodesis and biceps tenotomy are two similar surgical procedures used to treat chronic pain and tendonitis in the long head biceps tendon. It may also be used to treat SLAP tears. Tenodesis involves cutting the biceps tendon and attaching
Shoulder Arthroscopy
A shoulder arthroscopy allows your surgeon to look inside your shoulder joint and perform a number of procedures using small instruments guided through tiny incisions made in the skin.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Also called ‘shoulder arthroplasty’, shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure used to treat very damaged shoulder joints. It is usually recommended as a final treatment after conservative treatments – such as pain medication and physiotherapy – have failed. Orthopaedics SA
SLAP Tear Repair
SLAP is an acronym for superior, labrum, anterior, and posterior – A SLAP tear is an injury to the top part of the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches. The labrum is the ring of cartilage which reinforces the ball-and-socket
Why Orthopaedics SA?
Comprehensive care
From arthritis to sports injuries, we treat a full spectrum of bone and joint conditions to keep you moving.
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Our highly trained doctors have years of experience delivering precise and effective treatments.
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With 23 specialists, we offer unmatched expertise and evidence-based care for every patient.
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We have multiple clinics across South Australia, making it simple to find expert care nearby.
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We prioritise understanding your condition to ensure every treatment recommendation feels right for you.
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From your initial consultation to follow-up care, our team will guide you through every step of your treatment. Your specialist will provide a detailed recovery plan, including physical therapy to restore function and prevent future injuries.