What Are Some Long-Term Problems After Rotator Cuff Surgery?
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Chronic Issues Following Rotator Cuff Repair
The occurrence of some chronic issues post-rotator cuff repair is rare. However, it’s good to recognize them to make a smooth recovery possible. The following are some noticeable problems:
- Ongoing Pain
Many patients continue to feel shoulder pain after surgery, which can be caused by incomplete tendon healing, scar tissue, or lingering inflammation. Some may even experience symptoms similar to those they had before surgery, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction with the results. - Weakness and Strength Loss
After surgery, patients often notice a drop in shoulder strength, especially in movements like lifting the arm outward or rotating it. Studies show that years later, strength can decrease by up to 45% in forward motion and 42% in outward rotation, making daily tasks and physical activities harder. - Limited Mobility
Shoulder stiffness and reduced range of motion are common after rotator cuff repair. While mobility often improves initially, many patients don’t regain full movement. Scar tissue or ongoing inflammation can make rehabilitation more challenging. - Retear or Structural Issues
There is a significant risk of retear, especially in older patients or those with large tears to start. Research suggests up to 39% of patients may experience retears over time, leading to more pain and limited function. Some defects can even worsen after surgery, requiring further treatment. - Tendon and Muscle Changes
Over time, chronic rotator cuff tears can cause the muscles and tendons to shrink or develop fatty deposits. These changes make overhead movements and lifting objects more difficult, reducing shoulder functionality. - Mental and Emotional Impact
Persistent pain and limited movement can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of discouragement. Patients may struggle with not returning to their previous activity levels or worry about needing additional treatments or surgeries.
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Treatment Options to Address Chronic Problems
Addressing long-term issues after rotator cuff surgery requires a personalized approach. Here are some treatment options:
- Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a key role in recovery, focusing on customized exercises to restore shoulder strength and flexibility. Therapists target the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles to improve shoulder movement and reduce stiffness. Gradually strengthening the deltoid and shoulder blade muscles helps compensate for any weakness caused by surgery. - Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections can help manage pain and reduce inflammation, making it easier for patients to participate in physical therapy. However, these injections should be used sparingly, as they may weaken tendons with prolonged use. - Surgical Interventions
In cases of severe pain or retear, revision surgery may be needed to repair the rotator cuff again or address other structural issues. For irreparable tears, advanced procedures like Superior Capsule Reconstruction (SCR) or transferring the latissimus dorsi muscle can help restore shoulder stability and function. - Non-Operative Management
Non-surgical options include modifying activities to reduce strain on the shoulder while staying active. Hyaluronic acid injections may also relieve pain and improve shoulder movement for patients with ongoing problems. - Alternative Therapies
Complementary treatments like acupuncture or massage therapy can help reduce pain. They are also effective in improving mobility by relaxing muscles and easing tension around the shoulder. - Lifestyle Adjustments
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the shoulder joint and may ease discomfort. Making ergonomic changes to workspaces or daily routines can also improve shoulder mechanics and prevent further irritation.
What Our Patients Are Saying
From appointment scheduling, receptionist, nurse, xray to Dr. Barrett Brown, all friendly and professional. Thank God that Dr. Brown wants to try physical therapy instead of jumping to surgery. I am well pleased!!
Shelia Briggs
Dr Brown was very professional and explained everything. He helped me with decisions of my care. Highly recommend him.
Cathy Arroyo
I had the best experience with Doctor Brown and staff They are so Thorough and nice. He did amazing job on my shoulder I would recommend him And his staff any day thank you so much Doctor Brown.
Karen Larocca
Dr. Barrett Brown is a very fine physician. He is also a friend. While he is a surgeon he said this about my horribly painful shoulder. First we will try an injection performed by our specialist using ultra sound. (It was painless.) If that does not relieve your pain we will do a cat scan to evaluate the rotator cuff.
Lynn Russell
Highly recommend Dr Brown!!! He took time to answer all questions without rushing. I called his office in severe pain and received the in- office MRI and Dr appt the next day then Dr Brown explained my condition and I was booked for surgery with their on-site hospital days later. The surgery went great and I was treated great by all staff. They have valet service as well. Thanks Dr Brown and all staff!!!
Kimberley Gomez
I had the best experience with Doctor Brown and staff They are so Thorough and nice. He did amazing job on my shoulder I would recommend him And his staff any day thank you so much Doctor Brown.
Karen Larocca
I had a rotator cuff repair with Dr. Brown. Everyone at this hospital from the registration staff, pre-op nurse, surgery staff, recovery room nurse, the anesthesiologist, and of course, the surgeon, Dr. Brown were all professional and caring.
Mary Isern
I have, unfortunately, been a frequent visitor to the Fondren Orthopedic clinic as I cannot seem to stay on my feet 😅. My most recent experience with Dr. Brown has been nothing short of excellent. From the initial exam to surgery and then the follow up and discussion of how I am healing have been extremely thorough and communication has been a 10. I would definitely recommend.
Jenna Hunter
Wrapping Up
Rotator cuff surgeries are usually safe, and patients recover well. It seldom happens that things go wrong, and you end up with long-term problems after the rotator cuff surgery mentioned earlier.
Visit our shoulder specialist, Dr. Brown, at Barrette S. Brown, MD. Our doctor specializes in both arthroscopic and open reconstructive surgery for the shoulder and knee, including shoulder replacements. Dial (346) 247-2531 to request an appointment.