Beasley, Allen, Crow, Methvin, Portis & Miles, P.C.

Deciding to have rotator cuff surgery can be trying decision. On one hand, it can relieve pain and increase mobility in the shoulder. But shoulder surgery can carry risks, some that may worsen the condition and may require more surgery. Before choosing to go under the knife, consider your options, says the e-zine Revolution Health.

Some rotator cuff disorders – especially the early stages of rotator cuff damage –  may be treated without surgery through rest and rehabilitation, ice and heat applications, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Situations that may require surgery include symptoms that persist for more than 6 months, injuries that occurred suddenly, or if the tear is causing weakness.

Such injuries that may require surgery are those from a major sports injury or auto accident. Very large rotator cuff tears – larger than 2 inches – and tears that affect more than one of the four rotator cuff tendons sometimes cannot be repaired. But surgery may be able to relieve pain by removing damaged tissue from the joint.

Surgery, however, cannot always completely resolve problems with regular wear-and-tear over the years. And whether you choose to have surgery or not, rehabilitation and physical therapy will be required to get your shoulder back to near-par.

Surgery risks include infection, persistent pain, slow healing followed by stiffness, and the potential need for more surgery. In some cases, surgery may cause irregular heat rhythms, changes in blood pressure and heart attack.

Patients who have had shoulder surgery in the past have also suffered from a condition in which the cartilage has worn away, called chondrolysis. This condition was found to have been caused by a pain pump device that was implanted in patients following surgery to help relieve pain for up to 72 hours following surgery. If you have had shoulder surgery and are still experiencing pain and limited mobility, or have been diagnosed with chondrolysis, you may have a claim against the manufacturer.

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