Nonsurgical Treatment For Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries are a common and often debilitating affliction for many, particularly those who work in industries requiring repeated shoulder motion and/or upper body strength. It can become challenging to complete everyday activities, such as carrying groceries, reaching above your head, or lifting heavy objects. While many people with the injury consider surgery, it should be a last resort because it carries certain risks. Fortunately, many options are available to help prevent them from occurring or help manage non-invasive and effective pain.

What is a Rotator Cuff Injury?

A rotator cuff injury means one or more of the four muscles and tendons that make up your rotator cuff have been weakened or torn. Types of rotator cuff injuries can include the following:

• Repetitive motions- General wear and tear on the tendons and muscles in the shoulder can lead to rotator cuff injuries.
• Impact injuries- An impact on your shoulder, such as a fall, can cause the rotator cuff to be damaged.
• Shoulder impingement- Shoulder impingement can result in constant discomfort due to the inflammation and damage of your tendons. If not addressed, this issue may escalate into rotator cuff tears.

Rotator cuff injury symptoms can vary, but the most common is persistent pain in your shoulder when you move it in certain ways. Other symptoms include losing strength, difficulty sleeping on the affected side, and a popping or cracking sensation. If you have any of these symptoms, a diagnosis can typically be done with either an X-Ray or MRI. Then, a proper treatment plan can be put into place. It's important not to wait because prolonged damage can occur if not addressed promptly. Fortunately, many options are available to help prevent rotator cuff injuries or manage their pain without resorting to surgery.

Non-Invasive Treatment Options For Rotator Cuff Injury?

Rotator cuff injuries can be treated with non-invasive techniques. These treatments can help patients recover without the risks associated with surgical procedures.

• Chiropractic care- Chiropractic treatment can be incredibly effective in rehabilitating and healing your rotator cuff, relieving pain, and providing full joint mobility. It is particularly helpful in treating pinching or tears.
• Physical therapy- Physical therapy can provide exercises that help improve strength and flexibility in your rotator cuff muscles and other shoulder muscles.
• Pain management- Plenty of rest and ice or heat is a great way to help manage pain. Some may also benefit from taking anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen) and assistive devices such as shoulder braces. Specialized injections can also be used to reduce inflammation and pain in a particular area.

Only if these treatments are ineffective should someone consider surgery. There can be complications, scarring, and long-term damage associated with the procedure, so it should be a last resort.

A Comprehensive Approach To Rotator Cuff Injuries

Houston Spine & Rehabilitation Centers is a trusted source providing alternative treatments for rotator cuff injuries. We have a wide range of services centered around a comprehensive approach that helps our patients heal and recover. We can provide pain management and advanced chiropractic care that helps our patients get back to a healthy lifestyle.

If you have a rotator cuff injury and don't want to use surgery to correct it, we are a preferred facility in the Greater Houston and Woodlands areas. We welcome you to visit our location for a personalized MRI Review by our Chief of Staff, Dr. Yezak, which is free of charge.

With four locations, we specialize in helping our patients live a better quality of life. If you're suffering from symptoms from a rotator cuff injury, don't hesitate to book an appointment today. Our team will be more than happy to help you out. We look forward to helping you achieve the best results for your specific condition.