Rotator Cuff Tear Surgery From a Specialist in Louisville, KY

Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky, is an independently owned practice that is led by a growing team of nationally renowned orthopedic specialists. This team includes Ty E. Richardson, M.D., a board-certified orthopedic physician who excels in the fields of sports medicine and minimally invasive shoulder surgery. If you need to consult with a reputable specialist regarding rotator cuff tear surgery and other potential treatment options, you can confidently turn to Dr. Richardson and the team at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic.

Do I Need Rotator Cuff Tear Surgery?

The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that helps keep the shoulder joint securely in place. When a tear develops in the rotator cuff—often as a result of repetitive strain or a sudden injury—the shoulder joint weakens and everyday tasks like putting on a shirt and reaching into a cabinet can become very painful.

Rotator cuff tear surgery may be a viable treatment option for individuals whose pain does not improve with conservative measures like physical therapy, rest, and medication. Other possible indicators that rotator cuff tear surgery may be appropriate include:

• The tear is longer than 3 centimeters
• Pain has persisted for more than six months
• The tear was caused suddenly and did not develop over time
• Pain and weakness that significantly impacts shoulder function and quality of life

Rotator cuff tears are often associated with baseball and tennis players. This is rightfully so, as rotator cuff injuries are relatively common among athletes in these sports and several others. Still, anyone who is active or frequently performs overhead motions, such as plumbers, painters, and contractors, is vulnerable to rotator cuff tears. This is especially true for adults over 40, as age-related joint degeneration increases the risk of experiencing injuries.

What Does Rotator Cuff Tear Surgery Involve?

The goal of rotator cuff tear surgery is to repair the damaged tendon and restore joint function as much as possible. The ideal surgical approach for each case will depend on several factors, such as the scope of the tear, the patient’s activity levels, and the health of the surrounding joint structures.

Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques, many patients are able to benefit from arthroscopic rotator cuff tear surgery. This minimally invasive surgical approach requires only small incisions and uses an arthroscope—a thin instrument with a small camera attached to the end—to provide the surgeon with detailed live images of the joint space. Miniature instruments are used alongside the arthroscope to repair the tear and address other possible issues, such as bone spurs, without making large incisions. This approach can also lead to less post-operative discomfort and a more rapid return to activity.

Rotator Cuff Tear Surgery at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic

Dr. Richardson and our specialists at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic stand at the forefront of orthopedic surgery and specialize in minimally invasive joint repairs, including arthroscopic shoulder surgery and rotator cuff treatment, as well as comprehensive physical therapy and rehabilitation protocols. Contact our friendly team today if you would like to schedule an appointment or consultation. Our practice accepts most health insurance plans and proudly serves adolescents, adults, and seniors in the Louisville area.