Rotator Cuff Injuries & Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation

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What is Rotator Cuff Injuries & Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation?

Rotator cuff injuries and recurrent shoulder dislocation are common shoulder conditions that can cause significant discomfort and limit mobility. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable a wide range of arm movements. Injuries to the rotator cuff, such as tears or inflammation, often result from overuse, trauma, or degeneration due to aging, leading to pain, weakness, and difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.

Recurrent shoulder dislocation, on the other hand, occurs when the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) repeatedly slips out of the shoulder socket (glenoid). This instability is often caused by a prior dislocation that has stretched or damaged the ligaments, cartilage, or surrounding tissues. Both conditions may require treatment ranging from physical therapy and rest to surgical intervention, depending on their severity and impact on daily activities.

Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for a wide range of arm movements, such as lifting and rotating. Rotator cuff injuries occur when these muscles or tendons become inflamed, torn, or damaged due to overuse, trauma, or degeneration over time.

Causes

  • Repetitive overhead activities (e.g., sports like tennis, swimming, or baseball)
  • Trauma, such as a fall or direct impact
  • Degenerative changes related to aging
  • Poor posture or shoulder mechanics

Symptoms

  • Pain, especially with overhead movements or at night
  • Weakness in the shoulder
  • Limited range of motion
  • Difficulty performing daily activities, like lifting or reaching

Types

  • Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons, often from overuse.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in the shoulder).
  • Tears: Partial or full-thickness tears of the rotator cuff tendons.

Treatment

  • Non-Surgical: Rest, ice, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections.
  • Surgical: For severe or persistent tears, arthroscopic surgery may be required to repair the tendon.

Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation

Recurrent shoulder dislocation occurs when the shoulder joint repeatedly becomes unstable and the ball of the humerus (upper arm bone) slips out of the glenoid (shoulder socket). The shoulder is the most commonly dislocated joint in the body because of its wide range of motion and relatively shallow socket.

Non-Surgical Causes

  • Traumatic injury, such as a fall or accident
  • Weakness or damage to the stabilizing ligaments, tendons, or labrum (cartilage ring around the socket)
  • Congenital looseness or hypermobility of the joint
  • Improper healing after a previous dislocation
rotator-cuff-tear-ssc

Symptoms

  • Pain and deformity during dislocation
  • Recurrent feelings of instability, particularly during certain movements (e.g., throwing or overhead activities)
  • Weakness and reduced range of motion
  • Fear or apprehension of shoulder use

Treatment

  • Non-Surgical: Physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles, reduce instability, and improve joint mechanics.
  • Surgical: Procedures such as arthroscopic labral repair or capsular tightening may be needed for severe instability or when conservative treatments fail.

Relationship Between the Two Conditions

Recurrent shoulder dislocations can increase the risk of rotator cuff injuries, especially in older individuals, because dislocation can damage the rotator cuff tendons. Conversely, rotator cuff injuries may predispose individuals to instability and potential dislocations, creating a cycle of injury and dysfunction.

Managing both conditions typically requires a combination of strengthening exercises, mobility work, and—if necessary—surgical intervention to restore stability and function.

How we can help?

Dr. Sange Negi, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), DNB, with specialized training in knee and shoulder arthroscopy, offers expert diagnosis and treatment for these conditions.

Using advanced arthroscopic techniques, he can repair rotator cuff tears, stabilize the shoulder joint, and address underlying issues causing recurrent dislocations.

His minimally invasive approach ensures faster recovery, reduced pain, and better long-term outcomes for patients suffering from these debilitating shoulder conditions.

Contact Us

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Orthopedic Consultant @

Shimla Multispeciality Centre.

Shiv Kuteer, North Oak Sanjauli, Shimla

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