Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC
Persistent shoulder pain, weakness, or difficulty lifting your arm may be signs of a rotator cuff tear. Whether your injury developed gradually from repetitive overhead activity or occurred suddenly after a fall or accident, early evaluation can help prevent further tendon damage and improve recovery. Blake Ohlson, M.D. provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for rotator cuff tears in Mount Pleasant, SC, offering both non-surgical care and advanced arthroscopic shoulder surgery tailored to each patient's condition and activity goals.
Serving patients throughout Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and surrounding South Carolina communities, Dr. Ohlson develops personalized treatment plans designed to relieve pain, restore shoulder strength, and help patients safely return to work, sports, and everyday activities.
What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The rotator cuff is a group of tendons in the shoulder joint that provides support and enables a wide range of motion. A major injury to these tendons may result in rotator cuff tears. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain in middle-aged and older individuals.
What are the Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears?
A rotator cuff tear may occur with repeated use of the arm for overhead activities, while playing sports, or from a motor accident.
What are the Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears?
A rotator cuff tear causes severe pain, weakness of the arm and crackling sensation on moving the shoulder in certain positions. There may be stiffness, swelling, loss of movement and tenderness in the front of the shoulder.
How is a Rotator Cuff Tear Diagnosed?
Your surgeon diagnoses a rotator cuff tear based on a physical examination and X-rays. A rotator cuff tear is best viewed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
What are the Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears?
Conservative treatment
The conservative treatment options for rotator cuff tears are:
- Rest
- Shoulder Sling
- Pain medication
- Injection of a steroid (cortisone) and a local anesthetic in the subacromial space of the affected shoulder to relieve inflammation and pain
- Exercises
Surgery for Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff repair may be performed by open or arthroscopic surgery. In arthroscopy, the space for rotator cuff tendons will be increased and the cuff tear is repaired using suture anchors. These anchor sutures help in attaching the tendons to the shoulder bone. Following the surgery, you may be advised to practice motion and strengthening exercises.
Why Choose Dr. Blake Ohlson for Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Choosing an experienced orthopedic shoulder specialist can make a significant difference in both recovery and long-term shoulder function. Dr. Blake Ohlson combines extensive orthopedic expertise with a patient-centered approach to ensure every treatment plan is based on the severity of the tear, your lifestyle, and your goals.
Patients throughout Mount Pleasant, SC choose Dr. Ohlson because he offers:
- Fellowship-trained orthopedic expertise in shoulder conditions and sports injuries
- Comprehensive evaluation using advanced diagnostic imaging
- Individualized treatment plans that prioritize non-surgical options whenever appropriate
- Expertise in minimally invasive arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
- Personalized rehabilitation programs to restore strength and mobility
- Care focused on reducing pain while helping patients return to active lifestyles
- Convenient access for patients from Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and nearby communities
Whether your rotator cuff tear is small and manageable with conservative treatment or requires surgical repair, Dr. Ohlson works closely with you to determine the most effective treatment strategy for lasting shoulder health.
Rotator Cuff Tear FAQs
What is the most common symptom of a rotator cuff tear?
The most common symptoms include shoulder pain, weakness when lifting or rotating the arm, difficulty reaching overhead, and pain that often worsens at night.
Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?
Many partial tears and degenerative injuries improve with rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and injections. Larger or complete tears may require surgical repair to restore shoulder function.
How is a rotator cuff tear diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination and review of your symptoms. X-rays help evaluate the shoulder, while an MRI provides the most detailed view of the rotator cuff tendons and confirms the size and location of the tear.
When is surgery recommended?
Surgery may be recommended for complete tears, significant weakness, persistent pain despite conservative treatment, or injuries that interfere with work, sports, or daily activities.
What is arthroscopic rotator cuff repair?
Arthroscopic repair is a minimally invasive procedure performed through small incisions using a tiny camera and specialized instruments. Torn tendons are reattached to the bone using suture anchors while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues.
How long does recovery take after rotator cuff surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the size of the tear and the repair performed. Most patients wear a sling for several weeks and complete structured physical therapy, with full recovery often taking several months.
Can rotator cuff tears get worse if left untreated?
Yes. Some tears can enlarge over time, causing increasing pain, weakness, tendon retraction, and muscle degeneration, which may make future repair more difficult.
Does every shoulder injury require an MRI?
Not always. Many shoulder conditions can initially be evaluated with a physical examination and X-rays. An MRI is typically recommended when a rotator cuff tear or other soft tissue injury is suspected.
Schedule a Rotator Cuff Evaluation in Mount Pleasant, SC
If shoulder pain, weakness, or limited movement is interfering with your daily activities, don't wait for symptoms to worsen. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can improve recovery and help preserve long-term shoulder function. Dr. Ohlson proudly serves patients in Mount Pleasant, Charleston, Summerville, and surrounding South Carolina communities, and surrounding South Carolina communities with comprehensive care for rotator cuff tears and other shoulder conditions.
Schedule your appointment today learn about the treatment options that are right for you.