Victor Buonadonna is no stranger to shoulder pain. Ten years ago Victor had surgery to repair his right rotator cuff.  Then pain in both shoulders was again limiting Victor's mobility and active lifestyle. His family physician referred him to VOA shoulder specialist, Craig Arntz, M.D.

Examination and imaging studies confirmed that Victor had bilateral shoulder rotator cuff tears. Dr. Arntz explained to Victor the rotator cuff is made up of four muscles and tendons that blend together to form a "cuff" over the upper end of the arm (head of the humerus). These muscles combine to stabilize and move the shoulder.

Normal healthy rotator cuff tendons rarely tear. Most rotator cuff tears occur through tendons that have been weakened from the combined effects of injury, "wear and tear" and aging changes.

Individuals with rotator cuff tears usually experience shoulder pain and weakness. Many people with rotator cuff tears complain of a painful catching or grinding sensation when the shoulder is moved. At first, the pain may be mild and only present with reaching or lifting activities.

Dr. Arntz explained rotator cuff tears usually get worse over time. As the rotator cuff tear enlarges, affected individuals often experience increasing pain and disability. Over time, the pain may become noticeable at rest or with no activity at all.

In Victor's case, Dr. Arntz first recommended a trial course of non-surgical treatment, including physical therapy, activity modification and pain management. When these measures proved ineffective, Dr. Arntz recommended rotator cuff repair.

Dr. Arntz performed rotator cuff repair surgery on Victor's left shoulder in May 2008. Victor’s right rotator cuff tear was repaired in November 2008.

After surgery, Victor’s shoulder repair was protected in a sling. Dr. Arntz recommended physical therapy.  

"I was religious about physical therapy," Victor said. "I can't overemphasize how important physical therapy is."

Rotator cuff repair surgery can be very effective in helping a patient regain lost shoulder comfort and function. After surgery, patients are able to return many normal activities and sleep comfortably.

As long as the shoulder is cared for properly and barring additional injury, the benefit can be permanent, Dr. Arntz said.

"Victor was very motivated.  Although it took some time, he is now free of shoulder pain and able to do the things he wants to do."
Dr. Arntz said. "I’m very pleased Victor is doing so well."

"Dr. Arntz gave me back my shoulders," Victor said.

Last April, pain-free shoulders and extended winter weather allowed Victor to take on skiing at Crystal Mountain and snowshoeing on Mt. Rainier. This past summer, he went on a six-mile kayak paddle off of Marrowstone Island and also spent four days kayaking around Lopez Island.

"When I would hike with poles or ski, or kayak particularly, my shoulders would keep me up all night. Now that's all gone," Victor said.

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