Rotator Cuff Injury

[alophysio]

Indeed. Agreed.

6 weeks is a good goal time though for every patient then it gets modified based on their diagnosis.

We obviously don't know everything about the case and it is second hand information at that.

To add to my usual protocol, if i can improve someone's condition in 3 treatments where i have to diagnose the problem (i.e. not surgery or other clearly defined problem), then i tend to refer on for more investigations...

Just my opinion...

[Rotator-cuff-healer]

Below please find the usual recommended treatments:

The injured shoulder should be at rest from the activities that caused the problem and causing the pain. The implementation of intermittent ice towel on the injured shoulder and non steroidal anti-inflammatory (e.g. Voltaren) help reduce pain and inflammation.

Step 2 (don’t wait to long) should be the rotator cuff strengthening exercises. Start with the basic (as presented in my previous posts) then gradually introduce more exercises.

If pain persists or if severe pain prevents you from doing the required rotator cuff strengthening exercises, you could consider an injection of steroids directly to the injured tendon which effectively reduces pain and inflammation which will allow you to start an effective therapy strengthening therapy.

In rare cases surgery will be necessary. The usual incidents are where the rotator cuff has suffered a complete rupture or if symptoms persist despite a conservative therapy. Surgery can effectively remove bone spurs and inflamed tissue around the shoulder.

The small breaks or tears can be treated with arthroscopic surgery. The newest techniques allow even large tears are repaired in arthroscopic, although some of these big tears requiring open surgery to repair the torn tendon.

Prognosis (Successful healing):

Most people fully recover after a combination of medication, physiotherapy and injections of steroids. In patients with tendonitis and a bone spur, arthroscopic surgery is very effective in restoring the level of activity they had before the injury.

People who have a ruptured rotator cuff tend to improve, although the results depend highly on the size and length of the rupture or tear, as well as the age and level of functioning prior to the injury.

Complications:

Bursitis
Complete rupture of the rotator cuff

I recommend consulting with your mother in law's doctor with regard to the above proposed treatments.

For more information you are invited to visit my blog at:

rotator cuff injury exercise