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$Title{What Is a Rotator Cuff Injury?}
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Copyright (c) 1992,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Is a Rotator Cuff Injury?


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QUESTION:  I suppose you get a lot of questions about some injuries when they
happen to famous athletes.  That's because most reports just mention surgery,
and how long it takes to heal, and never describe the injury or what is being
fixed.  Can you provide a bit more of the medical facts involved in a "rotator
cuff injury"?  I am sure the people who read the sports' pages would like to
know.

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ANSWER:  You are right.  In one form or another I have received a dozen or
more questions like yours since it was announced that Dwight (Doc) Gooden, the
Met's ace pitcher needed cuff surgery.
     The rotator cuff is composed of muscles and tendons in the shoulder that
hold the ball-like top of the upper arm bone (the humerus) into a socket or
cup on the scapula.  They form a type of tissue cuff around the joint, and so
were given the name.  Together they act to help raise the arm and provide the
control that is essential for a pitcher.  However, the wear and tear of
pitching can cause an inflammation in the tissues, resulting in scarring and
eventually leading to a tear.  In years past it would have sounded the final
call for a pitcher, but now arthroscopic surgery provides a method of
repairing the damage without causing even greater injury from the surgery
itself.  The arthroscope is a little like a small telescope, allowing the
surgeon to see the injury and perform the repair, including trimming the torn
tissue and suturing the tear, through just a small incision.  The rest of the
muscles and tendons remain undisturbed and untouched, and allow for speedier
healing.  The operation may take several hours to complete, depending upon the
amount of damage that requires repairing.  Still, it will be months before the
shoulder will be ready to resume pitching.  The long road back includes a
complete rehabilitation process, exercise, whirlpools and gradual retraining
of the muscles.  However, check your records.  Although many outstanding
pitchers have had this surgery, few have made it all the way back to their
previous glory.  Still, arthroscopic surgery offers the best chance for the
future of an injured pitcher.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.