Should I Choose Surgery or Rehabilitation for My Shoulder Injury?

Q: Should I Choose Surgery or Rehabilitation for My Shoulder Injury?

Hello： In response to your question, whether a rotator cuff tear is a complete rupture will determine different treatment options. <br>Soft tissue ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to assess the severity of the condition. <br>Shortwave therapy and heat ap

The issue of whether to perform surgery and the use of traction!

Hello Doctor: I have a rotator cuff tear and a ligament tear in my right shoulder.
Many doctors have suggested surgery, but I have insisted on rehabilitation for many years now.
However, my symptoms have not improved and seem to have worsened.
Besides shortwave therapy and heat application, what other treatments would be beneficial for me? I have been doing some simple exercises to strengthen my muscles, but it doesn't seem to be effective! Is surgery really the better option? If I do need surgery, what kind of procedures would be involved? The clinic doctor also arranged for cervical traction because X-rays previously showed nerve compression in two cervical vertebrae, which is causing my hand to feel numb.
However, I have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, and the traction makes my jaw extremely painful.
The clinic doctor is also quite puzzled.
What should I do?

Joyce, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/04

Dr. Zheng Shunping reply Rehabilitation

Hello: In response to your question, whether a rotator cuff tear is a complete rupture will determine different treatment options.
Soft tissue ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to assess the severity of the condition.
Shortwave therapy and heat application should not be performed simultaneously on the same area.
Please discuss with a rehabilitation specialist to decide which treatment is appropriate for your shoulder.
Surgical intervention may involve repairing the torn tendon, and it is advisable to consult with an orthopedic surgeon before making a decision.
Cervical nerve compression combined with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is indeed not suitable for cervical traction; options such as heat therapy and electrical stimulation can be chosen to promote metabolic circulation and relieve pain.

Reply Date: 2004/07/04

More Info

When faced with a shoulder injury such as a rotator cuff tear and ligament damage, the decision between surgery and rehabilitation can be quite challenging. Your situation, where you have been undergoing rehabilitation for several years without significant improvement, raises important considerations.

First, it is essential to understand the nature of your injury. A rotator cuff tear can significantly impact shoulder function and cause chronic pain, especially if it is a complete tear. Rehabilitation often includes physical therapy aimed at strengthening the surrounding muscles, improving range of motion, and managing pain. However, if these conservative measures have not yielded positive results over an extended period, it may indicate that the injury is severe enough to warrant surgical intervention.

Surgery for a rotator cuff tear typically involves repairing the torn tendons and reattaching them to the bone. This procedure can restore function and alleviate pain, especially if the tear is complete and has not healed on its own. The surgical approach may vary depending on the extent of the damage and the specific characteristics of the tear. In some cases, arthroscopic surgery is performed, which is minimally invasive and allows for quicker recovery times compared to open surgery.

In your case, since you have been experiencing worsening symptoms despite rehabilitation, it might be time to reconsider the surgical option. Consulting with an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in shoulder injuries can provide you with a clearer understanding of the potential benefits of surgery versus continued rehabilitation. They can evaluate your specific condition, including the extent of the tear and any associated issues, such as the cervical spine problems you mentioned.

Regarding your neck issues and the associated nerve compression, it is crucial to address these concerns as well. Nerve compression can lead to symptoms like numbness and weakness in the arm, which may complicate your shoulder rehabilitation. If neck traction exacerbates your jaw pain due to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, it is essential to communicate this to your healthcare provider. They may need to adjust your treatment plan to avoid exacerbating your TMJ symptoms while still addressing the cervical spine issues.

In summary, if your shoulder symptoms have not improved with years of rehabilitation, and if you are experiencing significant pain and functional limitations, it may be time to consider surgery as a viable option. A thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, addressing your neck issues and any related pain is crucial for a comprehensive treatment approach. Always ensure that your treatment plan is tailored to your specific needs and circumstances, and do not hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel uncertain about the recommended course of action.

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