Move and Shine Orthopedic Wellness Clinic

08/03/2024

Rotator Cuff Tears: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery

Introduction:
The Shoulder joint is a highly mobile ball and socket type of joint. It has a big ball(humerus) and a small cup on which the ball has to center. This difficult task is possible with the help of a ligament called glenoid labrum and the rotator cuff muscles. They have the difficult task of doing this balancing act whenever shoulder joint is moved. When one or more of these tendons become torn, it can lead to pain, weakness, and limited mobility in the shoulder due to inability to balance the shoulder joint. This guide aims to provide comprehensive information on rotator cuff tears, including their causes, symptoms, and strategies for recovery.



What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the tendons in the rotator cuff become partially or completely torn. This injury can result from repetitive overhead motions, trauma, or degenerative changes associated with aging. Rotator cuff tears are common among athletes, particularly those involved in sports such as baseball, tennis, and swimming, as well as individuals whose occupations require repetitive shoulder movements. These tears are commonly seen in non athletic populations as well due to lack of strength training especially in mid-aged populations and sometimes younger age groups as well due to sedentary lifestyle

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears:
- Pain, particularly when lifting or lowering the arm
- Weakness in the affected shoulder
- Difficulty performing activities that require overhead reaching or lifting
- Limited range of motion in the shoulder
- A clicking or popping sensation with certain movements

Diagnosis:
It’s essential to seek early medical evaluation from a healthcare professional experienced in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests (such as MRI or ultrasound), and sometimes diagnostic injections to confirm the presence and extent of the tear. Early diagnosis and treatment leads to faster and more complete recovery

Treatment Options:
The treatment approach for a rotator cuff tear depends on several factors, including the size and severity of the tear, the individual's symptoms, and their functional goals. Treatment options may include:

1. Conservative Management:
- Rest, activity modification, and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms
- Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and shoulder mechanics
- Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to alleviate pain and inflammation

2. Surgical Repair:
Rotator cuff repair surgery may be recommended for complete tears, tears involving more than 50 percent thickness of tendons or patients who are not responding to conservative treatment. “A stitch in rotator cuff saves the joint” perfectly describes this condition

Recovery and Rehabilitation:
Recovering from a rotator cuff tear can be a gradual process, requiring patience and commitment to a structured rehabilitation program. Physical therapy plays a central role in restoring strength, mobility, and function to the shoulder, with a focus on progressive exercises, stretching, and manual techniques tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals.

Prevention:
While not all rotator cuff tears can be prevented, certain strategies can help reduce the risk of injury, including:
- Practicing proper shoulder mechanics and lifting techniques
- Incorporating exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles
- Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of activities to avoid overuse injuries

Conclusion:
Rotator cuff tears can significantly impact shoulder function and quality of life, but with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many individuals can experience significant improvement in symptoms and function. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for rotator cuff tears, you can take proactive steps to protect your shoulder health and minimize the risk of injury. If you suspect a rotator cuff tear or are experiencing shoulder pain or weakness, consult with a Shoulder surgeon for evaluation and personalized care.

08/03/2024

Mahashivratri – A Night of Awakening
Mahashivratri is an opportunity and a possibility to bring yourself to that experience of the vast emptiness within every human being, which is the source of all creation. On the one hand, Shiva is known as the destroyer. On the other, he is known as the most compassionate. He is also known to be the greatest of the givers. The yogic lore is rife with many stories about Shiva’s compassion. The ways of expression of his compassion have been incredible and astonishing at the same time. So Mahashivratri is a special night for receiving too. It is our wish and blessing that you must not pass this night without knowing at least a moment of the vastness of this emptiness that we call as Shiva. Let this night not just be a night of wakefulness, let this night be a night of awakening for you

07/03/2024

Understanding ACL Tears: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Introduction:
An ACL tear can be a daunting prospect for anyone, especially athletes and active individuals. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on everything you need to know about ACL tears, from what causes them to how they can be treated effectively.

What is an ACL Tear?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments in the knee, responsible for providing stability and support during movement. An ACL tear occurs when this ligament is stretched or torn, often due to sudden twisting or hyperextension of the knee. Sports that involve pivoting, cutting, and sudden stops, such as soccer, basketball, and skiing, are common culprits for ACL tears.


Symptoms of an ACL Tear:
- Sudden and severe pain in the knee
- Swelling within hours of the injury
- Instability or a feeling of "giving way" in the knee
- Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg
- A popping sensation at the time of injury

Diagnosis:
If you suspect an ACL tear, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional will conduct a thorough physical examination of your knee and may order imaging tests, such as an MRI, to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the injury.

Treatment Options:
The appropriate treatment for an ACL tear depends on several factors, including the extent of the injury, your activity level, and your overall health. Treatment options may include:

1. Non-Surgical Treatment:
- Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve stability
- Bracing to support the knee during activities
- Activity modification to avoid movements that exacerbate symptoms

2. Surgical Reconstruction:
- ACL reconstruction surgery is often recommended for individuals who are physically active or participate in sports regularly.
- During this procedure, the torn ACL is replaced with a graft, typically taken from the patient's hamstring tendon or patellar tendon.
- Following surgery, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in restoring strength, mobility, and function to the knee.


Recovery and Rehabilitation:
Recovering from an ACL tear can be a lengthy process, requiring patience, dedication, and the guidance of a skilled physical therapist. Rehabilitation typically involves a combination of exercises, stretching, and functional training to gradually regain strength, stability, and range of motion in the knee.

Prevention:
While not all ACL tears can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk of injury, including:
- Engaging in regular strength and conditioning exercises to build muscle strength and improve joint stability especially hamstring muscles so as to create balance between antagonistic muscles and knee stability
- Practicing proper technique and biomechanics during sports and activities like working on a weak core and hip muscles which result in poor balance
-Sports specific training has been developed to cater to the different requirements of each sport
- Wearing appropriate protective gear, such as knee braces, when indicated

Conclusion:
An ACL tear can be a significant setback, but with the right treatment and rehabilitation, many individuals can return to their previous level of activity. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for ACL tears, you can take proactive steps to protect your knee health and minimize the risk of injury. If you suspect an ACL tear or are experiencing knee pain or instability, don't hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized evaluation and care.

22/02/2024

Memorable pics from my Fellowship training in sports Medicine and Arthroscopy at Hopital de la Croix Rousse, Lyon, France. Had an incredible time there. Lots of academic discussions, hands on training, weekend travels to beautiful locations in France. The training was definitely worth the hype where stalwarts like David Dejour, Philippe Neyret and others have worked and trained lots of young Orthopedicians. I will be putting all this knowledge to use for my patients

26/12/2023

Proudly presenting drvireshortho.com. Check it out and let me know what you think! via

The best orthopedic surgeon, sports medicine, joint replacement surgeon, arthroscopy

22/12/2023

Proudly presenting drvireshortho.com. Check it out and let me know what you think! via

We provide comprehensive care for bones, muscles, and joints to help you live your life to the fullest.