/assets/production/practices/bcacc3597fffcc7f3a4f4939febb716e21c011e8/images/2848829.jpg)
Reaching overhead, lifting a bag, or sleeping on one side can become painful when something goes wrong with your rotator cuff. Gregory Foremny, MD, at IVO Miami, in Coral Gables, Florida, diagnoses and treats rotator cuff injuries using imaging and minimally invasive techniques. Call IVO Miami and schedule an appointment to learn more.
Rotator Cuff Q & A
What is a rotator cuff injury?
Your rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that wrap around the shoulder joint, holding the top of your arm bone in place and powering the shoulder through its wide range of motion. A rotator cuff injury develops when the tendons in that group become inflamed or tear, either partway or completely.
Some injuries come on suddenly from a fall or a heavy lift, while others build slowly through years of repetitive overhead motion.
What are the signs of a rotator cuff problem?
The first sign of a rotator cuff injury is usually a dull ache buried deep in the shoulder, and it sharpens over time. Common warning signs include:
- A persistent ache deep in the shoulder
- Weakness when lifting or carrying
- Trouble raising your arm overhead
- Disrupted sleep from pain on the affected side
- A crackling or grating sensation during certain movements
Pain that cuts into your range of motion or sticks around longer than a week or two is a good reason to see Dr. Foremny, because a rotator cuff tear left alone can widen and become tougher to fix.
How does my doctor diagnose a rotator cuff injury?
In addition to your symptoms and physical exam, Dr. Foremny uses diagnostic imaging which may include dynamic ultrasound or MRI to evaluate your rotator cuff.
What treatments help a rotator cuff injury heal?
Many rotator cuff injuries can improve without surgery. That’s why Dr. Foremny tailors the plan to the severity of your injury and your activity goals. Treatment options may include:
- Physical therapy and activity modification
- Topical therapies and medications
- Image-guided corticosteroid injections
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
- Percutaneous Tenotomy
By targeting the rotator cuff precisely, Dr. Foremny helps you avoid unnecessary surgery whenever possible. Some injuries may require surgery in which case Dr. Foremny will refer you to a trusted local orthopedic surgeon. Have your rotator cuff injury evaluated by calling IVO Miami today to schedule your consultation.