Rotator Cuff Repair in Sherman Oaks and Santa Clarita, CA
Dr. Alireza Nazemi offers orthopedic evaluation for rotator cuff injuries, with treatment recommendations based on the severity of the tear, shoulder function, and individual needs. Patients in Sherman Oaks, Santa Clarita, and surrounding communities can explore appropriate nonsurgical and surgical options.
What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles in the shoulder joint including the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles originate in the scapula and attach to the head of the humerus through tendons. The rotator cuff forms a sleeve around the humeral head and glenoid cavity, providing stability to the shoulder joint while enabling a wide range of movements.
Injury to the rotator cuff may occur due to pressure on the rotator cuff from part of the shoulder blade (scapula). It may occur due to repeated use of the arm for overhead activities or while playing sports. A forceful injury such as trauma can cause one or more of these tendons to tear, a condition called rotator cuff tear.
What is Rotator Cuff Repair?
Rotator cuff repair is a surgery to repair an injured or torn rotator cuff. It is usually performed arthroscopically on an outpatient basis. An arthroscope, a small, fiber-optic instrument consisting of a lens, light source, and video camera. The camera projects images of the inside of the joint onto a large monitor, allowing your doctor to look for any damage, assess the type of injury and repair it. Large rotator cuff tears may require open surgery.
When is Rotator Cuff Repair Necessary?
Your doctor may suggest surgery to treat rotator cuff tears if you:
do not respond to non-surgical treatment options
have severe shoulder pain and experience loss of strength
you want to return to sports soon
What Does Preparation for Rotator Cuff Repair Involve?
Your doctor will assess your symptoms and take your medical history. Imaging tests such as X-ray, MRI or CT-scan may be ordered. Talk to your doctor about the medicines you are taking prior to the procedure and if you are allergic to any medicines or anesthesia. Arrange for someone to drive you home.
What is the Procedure for Rotator Cuff Repair?
The procedure is performed under general or regional and involves the following steps:
- One or more incisions are made at the skin near the shoulder joint.
- An arthroscope is inserted through the incision.
- Miniature surgical instruments are inserted to remove the damaged part of the tendon and injured surrounding tissue.
- The damaged ends of the tendon are sewn together. Care is taken to prevent damage to nearby nerves or blood vessels.
- A suture anchor may be used to reattach a completely torn tendon to the bone.
- The incision is closed and covered with a bandage.
What Does Postoperative Care for Rotator Cuff Repair Involve?
Prescription pain medicines or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are used to manage pain. Your shoulder will be placed in a brace or cast and you will be encouraged to keep weight off. You will be allowed to perform specific physical therapy exercises as you heal. You may return to normal activities after 6 months.
What are the Risks and Complications of Rotator Cuff Repair?
As with any surgery, there are associated risks and complications may occur. Those related to rotator cuff repair may include:
- Anesthetic complications
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Stiffness
- Tendon re-tear
Why Choose Dr. Alireza Nazemi for Rotator Cuff Repair in Sherman Oaks and Santa Clarita, CA?
Shoulder pain, weakness, and limited mobility caused by a rotator cuff tear can interfere with work, sports, and everyday activities. Dr. Alireza Nazemi, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, minimally invasive surgery, and joint care, serving patients in Sherman Oaks and Santa Clarita, California.
Dr. Nazemi's orthopedic training and sports medicine experience support a comprehensive approach to evaluating shoulder injuries and discussing appropriate treatment options. Depending on the severity of the tear, symptoms, activity level, and overall health, treatment may involve nonsurgical care or arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
Patients seeking rotator cuff treatment can discuss their symptoms, diagnostic findings, and recovery goals with Dr. Nazemi to better understand their options. His goal is to help patients make informed decisions about shoulder care and work toward improved function and a return to their desired activities.
Rotator Cuff Repair FAQs
When should I see an orthopedic surgeon for a rotator cuff tear?
Consider an evaluation if you have persistent shoulder pain, weakness when lifting your arm, difficulty reaching overhead, or symptoms that interfere with sleep or daily activities. Sudden pain and weakness following an injury warrant prompt medical assessment.
Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?
Some rotator cuff tears can be managed without surgery through activity modification, physical therapy, appropriate medications, and other conservative treatments. The best approach depends on the tear's size and location, symptom severity, functional limitations, and individual goals.
Is rotator cuff repair performed arthroscopically?
Yes. Many rotator cuff tears can be repaired arthroscopically using a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through small incisions. Larger or more complex tears may require a different surgical approach, depending on the individual case.
How long does recovery from rotator cuff repair take?
Recovery varies according to the size of the tear, the repair technique, and individual healing. Patients typically wear a sling for a period after surgery and progress through a structured rehabilitation program. Returning to strenuous activity or sports may take several months, often around six months or longer.
Will I need physical therapy after rotator cuff repair?
Physical therapy is generally an important part of recovery. Rehabilitation typically progresses from protected movement to exercises that restore range of motion and gradually rebuild strength. Following your surgeon's instructions helps protect the repair while supporting recovery.
What are the signs that a rotator cuff tear may need surgery?
Persistent pain despite conservative treatment, significant weakness, functional limitations, and certain acute tears may lead a surgeon to recommend repair. Imaging findings and your activity goals also help guide the decision.
Where can I consult Dr. Alireza Nazemi for rotator cuff repair?
Dr. Alireza Nazemi serves patients in Sherman Oaks and Santa Clarita, California. Contact his practice to confirm office availability, arrange an evaluation, and discuss treatment options for a rotator cuff injury.
Schedule a Rotator Cuff Evaluation in Sherman Oaks or Santa Clarita, CA
Shoulder pain and weakness do not have to keep you from the activities you enjoy. If you are experiencing symptoms of a rotator cuff tear, Dr. Alireza Nazemi, MD, provides orthopedic care focused on evaluating shoulder injuries and identifying appropriate treatment options.
Contact Dr. Nazemi's team to schedule a consultation for rotator cuff repair in Sherman Oaks or Santa Clarita, CA. An evaluation can help determine whether nonsurgical treatment or surgery may be appropriate for your condition and recovery goals.
