Say Goodbye to Chronic Tendon Pain

Tendon injuries are often treated with anti-inflammatories, pain killers, or in advanced cases, arthroscopic surgery. Other than surgical intervention, most treatments don't remedy the problem, they just make it bearable. There is another effective option that ends the chronic pain and mobility limitation caused by tendon injuries and scarred tissue. The Tenex Health TX is a minimally invasive nonsurgical procedure that removes damaged tendon without disturbing surrounding tissue.

Tenex Health TX is a sophisticated treatment that uses ultrasound technology to treat tendon and soft tissue injuries. Only physicians who are trained in the procedure are authorized to use Tenex Health TX. One of those physicians is Dr. Steven W. Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine who is renowned for his progressive methods in treating various orthopedic conditions.

Who is Qualified for the Treatment?

Individuals who have chronic tendon pain which conservative measures couldn't help or who refused arthroscopic surgery are possible candidates. Tenex Health TX is a revolutionary solution for the treatment of tendon scar tissue from orthopedic conditions such as:

Rotator cuff Achilles tendinitis Tennis/Golfer's elbow Swimmer's shoulder Runner's knee

The procedure is minimally invasive using ultrasonic energy to cut and remove damaged tissue which then allows restoration of soft-tissue function to the site. Recovery time is minimal and there is little to no discomfort following the procedure. If needed, over-the-counter pain medication can be taken. Most importantly, chronic tendon pain is gone.

Contact an Orthopedic Expert

If you have a chronic tendon pain then Tenex Health TX could be your solution. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine at 310.736.2793 to discuss whether this innovative treatment is right for you. Dr. Steven W. Meier is one of only a few surgeons in Los Angeles who is authorized to perform the procedure.

Are You a Candidate for Partial Knee Replacement?

At some point, chronic knee pain becomes unbearable, and it's time to consider surgery. Origin of the pain determines whether you require a total knee replacement or if a partial replacement is feasible. If damage to the knee is restricted to only one localized area, a partial knee replacement can be performed. Also called unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, a partial replacement uses a minimally invasive technique which is preferable to traditional “open” surgery.

An orthopedic surgeon is the most qualified to assess your condition and select the best treatment method. Ideally, you want a specialist who is skilled in surgical procedures that will benefit you the most. One of the most progressive surgeons in the area is Dr. Steven W. Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine who is well known for exceptional patient care and expert guidance.

What Happens in Surgery?

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty repairs only the damaged part of the knee without touching the kneecap. The best candidates for this procedure are individuals with arthritis, moderate joint damage or traumatic injury to one compartment of the knee. The procedure restricts repair to the damaged area leaving the the rest of the joint intact. As a result, patients experience a shorter healing time, require less rehabilitation, and return to normal activities more quickly than with a total knee replacement.

Benefits of the Procedure

As a minimally invasive procedure, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty allows for most of the knee to remain intact. Rehabilitation takes less time and natural movement can be restored more quickly to the leg.

Contact the Orthopedic Expert

If you have a chronic orthopedic condition requiring surgery, you want the best in orthopedic care for a quick recovery. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine and meet with our team of highly qualified doctors whose expertise will offer you the best possible treatment solutions. Call us today at 310.736.2793.

Why Is Arthoscopic Surgery a Preferred Method?

Arthroscopic surgery is an excellent treatment alternative that benefits patients and surgeons. The small incisions used in arthroscopic procedures mean there is less tissue damage and blood loss for the patient and less time in the operating room for the surgeon. Recovery time is reduced and rehabilitation is more successful. It's just the opposite with traditional “open” surgery. The procedure take longer and is move invasive for the patient.

The use of arthroscopic methods is widespread in the medical community with many common orthopedic conditions treated using this approach. One of the early adopters of the arthroscopic technique is Dr. Steven Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine. He is well known for his progressive treatment methods and immediately recognized arthroscopy as a preferred option for patients and surgeons.

Which Conditions Are Treated?

Arthroscopic surgery can be used on some common shoulder injuries. The technique is ideal for treating torn cartilage, trimming damaged tissue, and reconstructing torn ligaments for conditions such as:

Rotator cuff tears Shoulder dislocation Cartilage tears Shoulder joint degeneration

Key to the success of arthroscopic surgery is the arthroscope, a camera device that displays and magnifies the surgical area for the operating surgeon. Using the arthroscope as a guide, a surgeon can accurately repair the injured area.

Reduced Recovery Time

Minimizing the amount of trauma to the injured area results in reducing the extent and duration required for rehabilitation. Not as much connective tissue and muscle is disrupted by surgery and healing is confined to a localized area. Physical therapy to restore the injured area can also start more quickly and require less time.

Contact the Orthopedic Expert

If you have a chronic orthopedic condition and considering surgery, you want the best in orthopedic care for a quick recovery. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine and meet with our team of highly qualified doctors whose expertise will offer you the best possible treatment solutions. Call us today at 310.736.2793.

Best Treatment to Improve Shoulder Pain

Constant shoulder pain is a debilitating condition that slows you down and affects your functionality. You know that you didn't break a rotator cuff or dislocate your shoulder, so logically, you believe rest is sufficient to return to normal. Actually, you might be suffering from shoulder impingement syndrome. This is a common problem caused by wear and tear on the shoulder joint. The best treatment for the condition requires help from an orthopedic surgeon.

Fortunately, most shoulder impingements can be effectively resolved with shoulder decompression, a minimally invasive method which is performed on an outpatient basis. First, you need to be examined by a qualified surgeon with expertise treating this condition. Dr. Steven Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine is a renowned surgeon specializing in joint disorders and known for his progressive methods. Dr. Meier always considers conservative method treatments first, but in cases with extensive damage, he will recommend a surgical method.

What is Shoulder Impingement Syndrome?

If you notice yourself wincing when you raise your arms or reach into your back pocket, you could have shoulder impingement syndrome. Another symptom of the condition is reduced range of motion of your arms. Many people might overlook these problems, but persistent pain and difficulty moving necessitate medical intervention.

Shoulder bones can create impingement with surrounding tendons and bursa and aggravate the area. Any upward and overhead movement of the arms causes pain and if the condition is not treated, impingement can develop into inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons and bursa, and eventually lead to a torn rotator cuff.

Effective Treatment

Dr. Meier advocates starting with conservative treatment except for severe impingement cases. Anti-inflammatories such as aspirin or ibuprofen is usually tried first, but cortisone can be prescribed if the other medicines fail. Another helpful conservative method is stretching exercises for the shoulder and arms. Any overhead arm movements should be curtailed during the treatment phase.

If surgery is recommended, subacromial decompression is the surgical method for shoulder impingement syndrome. Dr. Meier prefers arthroscopic to traditional surgery since a minimally invasive procedure is performed in less time and patients benefit from a shorter recovery. Any obstructions in the shoulder area such as bone spurs, cartilage debris, and damaged tissue are cleaned away from the area around the rotator cuff. Some physical therapy for the shoulder is required as rehabilitation will restore strength and range of motion to the area.

Contact an Orthopedic Expert Today!

If you have chronic pain from a shoulder impingement or another orthopedic condition, you want the best in orthopedic care for your treatment. Call Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine today at 310.736.2793. Schedule an appointment to meet with our team of highly qualified doctors and discuss the best possible treatment solutions for you.

Have You Considered a Second Opinion?

With certain orthopedic conditions and injuries, the only course of treatment is surgery. In other cases, while surgery is an optimum solution, it isn't the only treatment choice. Regardless of your medical situation, the decision to have surgery comes with thoughtful consideration. To make sure that you fully understand the benefits and risks of surgery, you should consider consulting another orthopedic surgeon for a second opinion.

Dr. Steven W. Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine believes that a second opinion offers peace of mind for a patient. Another physician's perspective often confirms a diagnosis and treatment plan recommended by the original surgeon, however, the benefit of additional insight provides reassurance.

Peace of Mind

Typically the physician whom you consult for a second opinion reviews records and diagnostics of your case. You'll meet to discuss second opinion findings and the consulting doctor will present his conclusions. You might be offered other treatment options to consider or just get confirmation of your original diagnosis and treatment.

Seeking a second opinion could provide you with treatment options that your original physician can't offer. In Dr. Meier's case, he is frequently requested for second opinions for his expertise in joint preservation and restoration. Dr. Meier is trained in some of the most sophisticated orthopedic procedures exclusive to his practice.

Taking the time for a second opinion gives you peace of mind from knowing you have considered all options.

Contact a Sports Medicine Specialist

If you have orthopedic pain from an injury or degenerative condition and want to consult with the best orthopedic surgeon. Or, maybe you would like a second opinion from Dr. Steven W. Meier, one of the most progressive orthopedic doctors available. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine today 310.736.2793 for an appointment.

Most Frequently Broken Bones

Some bones in the human body are more prone to break than others. Sometimes healing can occur naturally with the body producing new cells that form cartilage, bone, and fibrous tissue. However, when a fracture or break requires surgical intervention, there are several different procedures that can be performed depending on the severity of the injury.

There are certain circumstances when surgery is the only option. Dr. Steven Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine will always consider conservative methods first, but for patients with a displaced break or complications with conservative methods, he recommends surgery.

When is Surgery the Only Option?

Conservative treatments typically include reducing the swelling with ice, elevating the injured area, taking pain medication, and wrapping a compression bandage. However, these measure are insufficient in circumstances when:

Fracture is severe or displaced Non-surgical methods are inadequate Complications occur with conservative treatment

In these situations, surgery is the only way that fractured bones can be realigned or heal properly and restore functionality.

Bones at Risk for Injury

Of the six million people who fracture or break a bone, 300,000 will probably require surgery and most likely, the injury will come from one of the following areas:

Hip Elbow Collarbone Shoulder or upper arm Hand/Fingers Lower leg Ankle

While there are many other bones in the human body, these are the most commonly injured and treated by orthopedic surgeons.

Consult with an Expert Today!

If you injured yourself playing your favorite sport, you want the best in orthopedic care for a quick recovery. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine and meet with our team of highly qualified doctors whose expertise will offer you the best possible treatment solutions. Call us today at 310.736.2793.

The Most Advanced Knee Cartilage Repair

Articular knee cartilage works as a cushioning agent between the thighbone, shinbone, and kneecaps, however, injury and age can damage or erode the protective padding it provides. Cartilage loss or damage causes pain and restricts movement making even ordinary, everyday tasks excruciating.

In cases where surgery is the best treatment option, there is an advanced surgical solution which offers the best possible outcome for recovery. Autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) is the most advanced and surgically innovative treatment which only a few orthopedic surgeons can perform. Dr. Steven W. Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine is one of a select group of doctors who performs this procedure.

Who is a Candidate for This Procedure?

For the most effective outcome, patients must be committed to a recovery and rehabilitation phase that lasts a year. Highly successful ACI surgeries have been performed on young, athletic and older patients. The key is dedication to an aggressive physical therapy program. Complete recovery results in either minimal to no knee pain and a renewed athletic functioning.

Innovative Surgical Method

The ACI technique is a unique two-step method which combines arthroscopic and traditional surgery for cartilage restoration and growth. The purpose of the arthroscopic portion is removal of healthy cartilage cells for cultivation. The biopsied tissue is used to cultivate new cartilage for implantation in the damaged area of the knee joint. It takes a few weeks for the new cartilage to form, and at the appropriate time, the patient has the traditional open surgery. During the second procedure, the surgeon injects the cultivated tissue into the damaged area to stimulate cartilage restoration.

Contact the ACI Expert

If you are have constant knee pain and considering surgery as a solution. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine to learn more about ACI and other treatment options. Call us today at 310.736.2793 to schedule an appointment with one of our highly qualified doctors for a consultation.

How Injection Therapy Speeds Recovery

If there were a treatment available that could speed up your recovery from orthopedic surgery, you'd probably be interested in trying it out. There is such a treatment and it's called injection therapy. It might sound a little mad scientist, but this treatment uses a special preparation of platelets derived from the patient's blood. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRT) treatment is actually fairly common among orthopedic surgeons who use it as a treatment supplement for conditions including ACL injuries, rotator cuff tears, osteoarthritis, and sports injuries to name a few.

The Benefits of Platelet Therapy

This type of injection therapy utilizes the natural healing power of blood platelets to accelerate recovery time from injuries or surgery. A highly concentrated solution of platelets is developed from a patient's blood and injected into the injured area. As a result, the treatment affects the healing process by reducing recovery time and improving the quality of healing.

Platelet therapy has proven effective with conditions including: Fractures Knee arthritis Ligament and muscle damage Chronic tendon injuries Surgery

Most patients do not suffer adverse reactions, but there could be some pain, stiffness, and bruising at the injection site. Individuals who are diagnosed with cancer, anemia, or abnormal platelet function cannot be given this treatment.

Call the Injection Therapy Specialists

If you have orthopedic pain from an injury or degenerative condition and want to consult with the best orthopedic surgeon. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine today 310.736.2793 for an appointment with Dr. Steven W. Meier, one of the most progressive orthopedic doctors available.

Do You Have Kneecap Pain?

Kneecap pain is a disabling condition affecting your quality of life. It hinders your ability to exercise, lift heavy objects, or even walk. Left untreated, pain can become chronic and possibly, crippling. One of the more frequently diagnosed knee disorders is patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), a common sports injury provoked by frequent running, jumping, and trauma to this part of the knee. Individuals most at risk of developing the disorder include women, runners, and basketball players.

Do You Have PFPS?

Constant wear and tear of the knee from the impact of running and jump erode the knee's protective cartilage with the femur. Without the cushioning effect of tissue, the patella and femur rub together making it painful and difficult to smoothly move the knee joint. Common symptoms of this condition include:

Popping or clicking of the knee Chronic, aching pain with movement Pain from prolonged sitting Pain climbing stairs

These symptoms indicate a serious problem which only an orthopedic specialist can diagnose. Dr. Steven Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine has treated many patients with this condition using conservative methods although a more serious injury could require surgery. to remove damaged cartilage.

Best Method of Treatment

Often PFPS can be treated with conservative methods such as rest and therapeutic exercise. Another successful method is activity modifications to reduce stress on the knee. If surgery is recommended to removed damaged cartilage, this is performed using a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure.

Contact the Orthopedic Expert

If you have constant knee pain, then it's time for you to consult an expert orthopedic surgeon for a solution. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine to learn more about the best treatment options for your condition. Call us today at 310.736.2793 to schedule an appointment with one of our highly qualified doctors.

Can You Avoid Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a common arthritic condition which happens to many people and considered a natural part of aging. The condition affects joints including shoulder, hip, and knee and it's caused by inflamed tissue that has eroded over time. As cartilage wears down, protective tissue which previously cushioned joints is worn away restricting mobility and causing pain.

Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis cannot be avoided in cases when the condition is caused by genetics. There are also some other risk factors that can affect whether or not you develop the disorder:

Obesity Bone and cartilage injuries Excessive kneeling or squatting and lifting Sports injuries Arthritis

While some of these risks cannot be entirely avoided or controlled, certain ones such as obesity and sports injuries can be prevented by making lifestyle changes.

Eliminating Osteoarthritis Discomfort

Most individuals with osteoarthritis take over-the-counter (OTC) pain killers such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), and acetaminophen (Tylenol) to ease the pain of swollen joints. Making lifestyle adjustments, including healthy diet, exercise, and physical therapy, are other methods to minimize some of the discomfort.

Severe cases of osteoarthritis can be treated with surgery to restore the joints, reduce pain, and improve mobility. Surgical procedures used to treat osteoarthritis include:

Total or partial joint replacement Arthroscopic surgery – remove damaged cartilage Arthrodesis – fuse bones as pain reliever Osteotomy – alter bone alignment to reduce stress

All treatment options, including pain relievers, should be discussed with your doctor as part of your pain management plan for the condition.

Help with Osteoarthritis Treatment

You don't have to tolerate chronic pain and mobility problems from osteoarthritis or another arthritic condition when there are treatment options which can help you. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine and schedule a consultation about solutions to your discomfort. Call us today at 310.736.2793 for an appointment with one of our board-certified physicians.

How Regenerative Medicine Helps Orthopedic Pain

There's another component to orthopedic medicine that is becoming very popular with people seeking relief from chronic discomfort and pain pf aging joints and strained muscles. Regenerative medicine applies advanced medical techniques to restore old tissue to a healthier and more vital state.

This form of orthopedic treatment is cutting-edge and only a select few orthopedic surgeons have the training and expertise in this area. Dr. Steven W. Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine, who is internationally known for his expertise in progressive orthopedic methods, considers regenerative medicine an excellent non-invasive option for patients suffering from joint problems.

Three Unique Regenerative Methods

Included among the more popular regenerative modalities are three different treatments known for their unique healing properties:

Prolotherapy – a natural dextrose solution is injected into the damaged area. This treatment neutralizes pain and stimulates ligament and tendon regeneration.

Stem Cell – stem cells used to replace damaged tissue and accelerate regrowth. PRP Therapy – platelet-rich-plasma injected into damaged joint, tendon, or ligament to stimulate

healing and regrowth

The natural healing capabilities of these treatments are used to restore the functional ability to joints and connective tissue.

Conditions Regenerative Medicine Treats

The regenerative power of this treatment method is helpful in numerous orthopedic conditions including: Chronic neck and back pain Rheumatoid arthritis Tendonitis and tears Chronic neck and back pain Ligament injuries Cartilage defects Scoliosis

A complete listing can be discussed with a qualified physician such as Dr. Meier whose expertise includes regenerative medicine.

Call Us About Regenerative Medicine

If you are have constant knee pain and considering surgery as a solution. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine to learn more about ACI and other treatment options. Call us today at 310.736.2793 to schedule an appointment with one of our highly qualified doctors for a consultation.

Shoulder Dislocation vs. Separation – what's the difference?

The difference between a shoulder dislocation and shoulder separation is anatomy. Until you get a dislocation or separation, you might not think there is a difference between the two, but there is.

A dislocated shoulder refers to a displacement of the upper arm (humerus) from the shoulder blade (scapula). Alternatively, a separation means the shoulder blade had separated from the collarbone (clavicle) at the AC (acromioclavicular) joint. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and subsequent cartilage damage. Surgery is typically performed to stabilize the injured area and remove debris from around the joint.

A general practitioner typically refers patients to an orthopedic surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. A specialty in joint preservation is often a beneficial orthopedic expertise in treating shoulder injuries. Dr. Steven W. Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine specializes in innovative treatments and joint preservation.

Is Treatment the Same?

A dislocated shoulder is one of the most common joint injuries and it accounts for half of the dislocations that emergency room hospitals treat. The shoulder's capacity for a wide range of motion and mobility makes it susceptible to dislocation unlike the separation which is usually caused by trauma. In fact, a dislocation is often treated by manipulating the joint back into place. More severe cases might require surgery to restore stability and remove damaged tissue.

Physical therapy is an important component of treatment and often the primary method for restoring mobility and strength both for dislocated and separated shoulders. Other non-surgical methods for a low-grade separated shoulder include treating the injured area with ice and anti-inflammatory medication such as naproxen and ibuprofen. Surgery is not often performed, but in cases with chronic pain and degeneration, surgery helps to stabilize the joint and remove debris.

Contact an Orthopedic Expert

If you have a chronic orthopedic condition or an emergency regarding a displaced shoulder, you need to see an expert orthopedic surgeon for a solution. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine to learn more about the best treatment options for your condition. Call us today at 310.736.2793 to schedule an appointment with one of our highly qualified doctors.

When Should You Have ACL Surgery?

A torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is one of the most frequently occurring sports injuries. The ACL is one of four ligaments connecting the upper and lower leg bones and responsible for providing stability to the knee joint. Injury can occur when trauma damages the ligament causing the leg to buckle or in severe injury, the knee pops.

Several Treatment Options

Orthopedic surgeons including Dr. Steven W. Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine, advocates conservative methods first before considering surgery as a treatment option. Conservative treatment typically includes reducing the swelling with ice, elevating the knee, taking pain medication, and applying gentle compression with an elastic bandage. These measure are used when the grade of ACL injury is not severe. When the ACL is completely torn, then most likely surgery will be recommended. Along with most orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Meier uses a minimally invasive technique called arthroscopic surgery.

Effective Surgical Procedure

The purpose of the arthroscopic procedure is knee reconstruction. Modern orthopedic procedures are far less invasive than previous traditional surgeries which were more traumatic methods requiring one year or more for recovery. Minimally invasive methods use only two or three small incisions through which the arthroscope and surgical instruments are inserted.

The arthroscope is key to a minimally invasive procedure. The device has a small camera at one end and it transmits an image of the damaged area. Using the arthroscope as a visual guide, the surgeon reconstructs the torn ligament using grafted tissue.

Contact the Arthroscopic Expert

If you injured your ACL or another ligament playing your favorite sport, you want the best in orthopedic care for a quick recovery. Contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine and meet with our team of highly qualified doctors whose expertise will offer you the best possible treatment solutions. Call us today at 310.736.2793.

What is Sports Medicine?

Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine specializes in providing comprehensive orthopedic and sports medicine services including the diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries caused by participation in sports, the workplace and more.

At the forefront of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine is Steven W. Meier, MD is a leading board-certified orthopedic surgeon in Los Angeles, California. He is a world renowned surgeon in the orthopedic sports medicine specialty and is sought out by patients with challenging and complex bone and joint disorders.

Dr. Meier and his dedicated medical staff aim to provide the highest quality, cutting edge health care services to treat the following conditions:

Orthopedic Services

Shoulder pain – rotator cuff surgery, shoulder decompression, shoulder hemiarthroplasty, separated shoulder treatment, dislocated shoulder treatment, shoulder instability surgery

Knee pain – ACL injury treatment, ligament repair, unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, knee replace-ment, torn meniscus treatment, Baker’s cyst treatment, kneecap pain treatment

Cartilage damage – ACI surgery Joint Preservation – osteotomy, cartilage restoration, meniscus transplantation, injection therapy,

hyaluronic acid injections Broken bones/fractures Osteoarthritis Subchondroplasty

Regenerative Medicine

In addition to the list of comprehensive orthopedic procedures offered at Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine, Dr. Meier also treats many orthopedic conditions with various forms of regenerative medicine. Non-surgical, regenerative medicine has been effective in treating patients suffering from aches and pains associated with general wear and tear of joints, chronic neck and back pain, degenerative and rheumatoid arthritis, foot pain, ligament injuries, osteoarthritis, scoliosis and more.

Dr. Meier understands that each patient has a unique set of needs, which is why he provides three essential modalities of regenerative medicine. Although the goal of each treatment method is to promote tissue growth, the most effective approach will be chosen depending on each patient’s condition.

Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine offers the following regenerative techniques:

Prolotherapy – designed to alleviate serious pain in the most natural way possible. Involves injecting dextrose between the muscle and bone in the site of injury.

Stem Cell Therapy – uses amniotic stem cells to regrow damaged or deteriorated tissue. Stem cell ther-apy is ideal for patients experiencing low back and neck pain due to disc degeneration or joint pain due to osteoarthritis in the knee, hip, shoulder, etc.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Therapy – allows stem cell treatment to speed up self-healing capabilities by extracting growth factors from your own blood that can be delivered to poorly healing areas. Concen-trated plasma is injected into injured joints, tendons or ligaments.

Whether you are experiencing discomfort from a sudden accident, or have been dealing with chronic pain for quite some time now, there are many surgical, or non-surgical, options available to restore your body back to a more functional and healthier state. To receive the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition, it is best to seek advice from a board-certified orthopedic sports medicine specialist.

Best Choice for Expert Orthopedic Care In Beverly Hills

If you live in the Los Angeles area and would like to learn more about Dr. Meier and his professional medical team, call 310.777.7845 today. To explore the full range of services offered at Orthopedic Sports Medicine or to contact us through our website, please visit mosm.com

Painful Shoulder Condition: Rotator Cuff Tear

According to the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, roughly 200,000 Americans require surgery related to rotator cuff repair each year. In addition, 400,000 Americans have surgery for rotator cuff tendonitis or for partial tears. Rotator cuff problems are one of the most common musculo-skeletal disorders in America, especially for adults age 65 and older. Moreover, since this particular age group is the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population, we are expecting to see a rise of rotator cuff issues in the future as the population ages.

The Anatomy of a Shoulder

The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the human body and is comprised of three bones: the humerus (upper bone), the scapula (shoulder blade) and the clavicle (collarbone). In a normal functioning shoulder, the humerus fits into the scapula, forming a ball and socket joint.

The rotator cuff is a collection of four muscles joined together as tendons covering the shoulder. The rotator cuff is an important structural aspect of the shoulder as it contributes to the arm’s ability to lift and rotate. Wedged between the rotator cuff and the bone on top of your shoulder is a lubricating sac called a bursa. The bursa is what helps the rotator cuff tendons to glide freely during arm movements. When the rotator cuff tendons are damaged or injured, the bursa can also become inflamed and painful.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

The shoulder is capable of a wide range of motion because of how loosely the humerus fits into the shoulder joint. This aspect of the shoulder is also what makes it quite vulnerable to injury. A rotator cuff tear may be caused by a sudden injury or from the general wear and tear of overused muscles. A tear in one of the network of muscles or tendons surrounding the top of the humerus is enough to cause pain and inflammation.

There are two types of rotator cuff tears:

Acute Tear – caused by injury from lifting heavy objects, falling on an outstretched arm or any other type of sudden motion. Acute rotator cuff tears can occur with other shoulder injuries, such as dislo-cated shoulder or a broken collarbone.

Degenerative Tear – result of tendons wearing down over time which naturally occurs as we age. These types of tears are more common in the dominant arm.

Factors that contribute to degenerative, or chronic, rotator cuff tears:

Constant stress – repetitive shoulder motions over and over again can greatly stress your rotator cuff muscles and tendons. Many athletes who play baseball, tennis, rowing and weightlifting are susceptible to tears associated with muscle overuse. Jobs and routine chores can also cause overuse tears.

Inadequate blood supply – not having a good blood supply can hinder the body’s natural ability to re-pair tendon damage. As we age and have less blood supply, the risk of a tendon tear is higher.

Bone spurs – or bone overgrowth may cause shoulder impingement due to the bone spurs rubbing on the rotator cuff tendon. This may eventually lead to weakened tendons, and ultimately a tear.

Rotator cuff tears, whether caused by injury or degeneration, may cause serious pain and inflammation. Fortunately, as the prevalence of rotator cuff problems continue to increase, so are advances in treatment options available for patients. However, it is important to understand the intricacy of your shoulder and discuss your specific condition with a specialist.

Professional Orthopedic Sports Medicine Doctor in Beverly Hills

If you are experiencing pain due to a rotator cuff tear or other serious shoulder condition, consult an orthopedic specialist immediately. Dr. Steven W. Meier of Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine in Beverly Hills utilizes therapeutic techniques as well as surgical, and non-surgical treatment options for many musculoskeletal problems. If you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Meier, please call 310.777.7845 or fill out an online form here.