A rotator cuff tear is a common cause of pain and disability among adults. In 2008, close to 2 million people in the United States went to their doctors because of a rotator cuff problem.

A torn rotator cuff will weaken your shoulder. This means that many daily activities, like combing your hair or getting dressed, may become painful and difficult to do.

 
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There is no longer a need to go to Knoxville or Chattanooga for orthopaedic conditions! Dr. David Robins and McMinn Orthopaedic Clinic have locations in Athens, Etowah, and Dayton, Tennessee!

Conditions causing pain in your shoulder range from arthritis to rotator cuff injuries.

While many athletes are prone to rotator cuff injuries, these injuries are common in the general population also. Your risk of having such an injury dramatically increases after age 70.

Shoulder_Anatomy





Shoulder injuries are painful and often debilitating. The pain from conditions of the shoulder may prevent you from doing your daily activities.  

Of the many things that can go wrong in the shoulder, a rotator cuff tear is the most common. One of the four tendons or muscles in this area may be inflamed, damaged, or torn. Treatment options include physical therapy, alternating ice or heat, steroid injections, and surgery.  Arthroscopic surgery is possible in many situations, and should be discussed with your orthopaedic surgeon.

Normal_Rotator_Cuff         














Dr. David Robins will attempt conservative treatments such as physical therapy, initially. This may be combined with an injection for reduction of inflammation.

If conservative treatments are not successful and you still have difficulty with routine activities, surgery may be necessary. 

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear include:

  • Sudden, tearing feeling in the shoulder, followed by severe pain through the arm.
  • Limited movement of the shoulder due to pain or muscle spasm.
  • Severe pain for a few days (due to bleeding and muscle spasm) which usually resolves quickly.
  • Specific tenderness (“x marks the spot”) over the point of rupture/tear.
  • If there is a severe tear, you will not be able to abduct your arm (raise it out to the side) without assistance.

                      

                        Helping East Tennessee One Bone at a Time


    • Other painful shoulder conditions include sprains, bursitis, dislocations, arthritis, and tendonitis.

    If you suspect symptoms of these conditions, please call our office and make an appointment (423) 746-2445.

    There is no need to let pain interfere with your day!
                             
     
     
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