Verdict is in: torn rotator cuff

"What is a rotator cuff injury?

Swimming, throwing a ball and heavy lifting are among activities that can lead to a rotator cuff injury. The problem is stress placed on the joint by these activities. The muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff can also be torn by a fall onto the shoulder or arm. (How about lifting a cat??!!)

Definition: The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint with a wide range of motion. Because of this mobility, the shoulder can also be very unstable. The "rotator cuff" is actually a group of four muscles that help stabilize the shoulder joint. These muscles hold the ball-shaped top of the upper arm bone (humerus) in the socket-like area known as the glenoid. A rotator cuff injury occurs when the muscles and tendons, which connect muscle to bone, become overstretched or torn.

How Injury Occurs: The muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff can tear due to a fall onto the shoulder or onto an outstretched hand, or by slow wearing from repeated overhead arm movements, such as throwing a ball or swimming. Heavy lifting at home or at work can also overstress the shoulder joint.

Symptoms: A torn rotator cuff commonly causes weakness and pain in the shoulder. Arm movement may be uncomfortable and limited. (More like extremely painful when I do certain movements?)

Diagnosis: Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and the history of the condition, and will conduct a physical examination of the shoulder and upper arm. X-rays may be obtained to view the joint and rule out the possibility of broken bones. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) (Yep, just had that done) and arthrogram may be used to take a more in-depth look at your shoulder and surrounding soft tissues.

Treatment: Conservative treatment usually includes a period of rest and immobilization for the affected shoulder. Anti-inflammatory medications are useful for decreasing pain and swelling. Ice packs can also be applied to the area 3 to 4 times per day for 15 to 20 minutes until swelling disappears. Your doctor may have you participate in a rehabilitation program guided by a physical and/or occupational therapist. The goal of rehabilitation is to restore function in your shoulder and help you return to regular activities. (Been there, done that, didn't work unfortunately.)

Surgery (Yikes! Bummer!! Tell me it isn't so!) may be recommended if the tear is large, if the patient is young and very active or if the tear causes continued weakness or pain. Repairing damaged tissues helps restore function and reduce pain. A period of rest and rehabilitation will follow the surgery.

Long-term Outlook: Your recovery will depend on your age, overall health, the extent of the injury and the treatment recommended by your doctor. A mild injury may require just a few weeks to regain strength and flexibility. Patients who undergo surgery usually need approximately 6 to 8 months for complete recovery."

And all because of a stupid cat. (To get that story, refer to the blog entry "A stupid cat and frozen peas", March 24, 2008.)

I have an appointment with an orthopedic doctor who specializes in shoulder reconstruction in a couple of weeks. I will let you know what the results are and what plans we have to deal with my right shoulder. In the meantime, pray for God's guidance and healing.

Meanwhile, the cat remains in the family.

Dan