How to Talk to a Doctor About Rotator Cuff Surgery

Problems with the rotator cuff may be caused by tendonitis in the shoulder or from an injury to that area. Severe rotator cuff problems may make use and movement of the arm very difficult. You should know how to talk to your doctor about rotator cuff surgery to find the best treatment for your condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with your doctor. The doctor that you see should be the one most familiar with your rotator cuff problems.

• 2

  Talk about how your rotator cuff treatment has been going. You may have had success with other treatments, but now you want to look into a long-term solution. Your doctor may suggest rotator cuff surgery if he believes that your rotator cuff is torn, since this is the only way to correct such a problem.

• 3

  Ask whether your doctor recommends open incision surgery or arthroscopic surgery. The former surgery is more invasive than the latter, but it is sometimes the only way to correct your rotator cuff problems. Your doctor may refer you to a surgeon for a second opinion.

• 4

  Find out if your doctor recommends any physical therapists. If you have surgery, you will need to go through up to 2 months of physical therapy to rehabilitate your shoulder.

• 5

  Find out which medicines you'll be taking after your surgery. Your doctor should know which substances you are allergic to and can give you a list of them to provide to your surgeon when you go for a consultation.

• 6

  Ask your doctor about alternative treatments for you rotator cuff problems. Alternative treatments, like supplements and homeopathic remedies, are becoming ore popular to treat rotator cuff problems. Depending on whether your condition is a muscle or bone problem, these alternative treatments may or may not be an option for you.