Minneapolis Rotator Cuff Injury Attorney

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There are four muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint and forming the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff muscles and tendons are responsible for the range of motion in the shoulder. The shoulder has the widest range of motion of any joint in the body.

Partial tears in the rotator cuff is when there is fraying in the muscle. A full tear in the rotator cuff means the tendon is damaged and at least partially detached. Trauma-induced rotator cuff damage usually occurs in slip and fall accidents, side-impact motor vehicle accidents, and rear-impact collisions where the victim braces for impact on the steering wheel or dashboard.

An MRI is most commonly used to diagnose a rotator cuff injury, but ultrasounds are becoming more popular because they detect small tears better and they are more cost effective. If the injury is severe, an MRI may be recommended because the MRI can reveal damage to the surrounding area, including the bone, shoulder capsule, and shoulder socket muscles and cartilage.

In a trauma-induced rotator cuff injury, surgery is almost always recommended. There are three types of surgery available:

• open repair is when a 2-3 inch incision is made on the top of the shoulder so that the surgeon can see the damage and do the repair
• mini-open repair is arthroscopic assisted, the surgeon reaches the injury by splitting the deltoid muscle
• arthroscopic repair, requiring three small slits around the perimeter of the shoulder

Rotator Cuff Injury Prognosis

Physical therapy is very important in the recovery process. The exercises for the shoulder are designed to regain flexibility and strength. They need to be done 3-5 times every day, without fail, to prevent scar tissue from forming and to keep the shoulder from becoming stiff and painful. When a physical therapy program is strictly followed, most patients have a satisfactory recovery in 6-12 months.

Minneapolis Rotator Cuff Injury Attorney

Terry, Slane & Ruohonen is a premier personal injury law firm with years of experience and extensive medical knowledge. We will listen to you and your needs. If you retain us, we will do all of the paperwork, handle the insurance companies, and file your claim — and there are no charges until the case is won. Call 612-362-0000 or contact us.