Operation | Torn muscle fibre of the shoulder

Operation

Surgical treatment (surgery) for a torn muscle fibre in the shoulder is not always obligatory. Only in cases in which more than one third of the entire muscle cross-section is affected, surgery is necessary. Surgery for a torn shoulder muscle fiber includes both the removal of the deep-seated bruise and the connection of the individual muscle fibers. Following the operation, the affected shoulder must be completely immobilised for a period of at least 4 weeks. After this absolute rest phase, so-called muscle toning physiotherapy can help to positively influence the healing process.

Kinesiotape for torn muscle fibers

A torn muscle fibre at the shoulder can often be prevented by simple methods. Athletes should note in this context that each training session must be started with a light warm-up program. In this way, the muscles can be effectively warmed up and prepared before the actual stress phase begins.

Since injuries to the musculature (pulled muscles, torn muscle fibers, muscle tears) often occur in cold outside temperatures, great importance should be attached to extensive warm-up training. In cold weather conditions, at least 15 minutes should therefore be planned for the warm-up. Warm outside temperatures, on the other hand, increase the risk of a muscle fiber tear at the shoulder due to the loss of fluid and electrolytes. For this reason, athletes should ensure a regular supply of water and electrolytes.

Chances of healing a torn muscle fiber of the shoulder

There are various therapeutic procedures for the treatment of a torn muscle fibre. The treatment of a torn shoulder muscle fiber is usually conservative, i.e. by immobilization and cooling, if necessary also by means of a compression bandage that is applied to the shoulder. In most cases, anti-inflammatory drugs are also administered in parallel.

Depending on the extent and severity of the torn muscle fibre, it is also possible that conservative therapy is not sufficient to alleviate the symptoms even in the long term. Above all, if the torn muscle fiber in the shoulder area has also caused severe movement impairment, a surgical procedure must be considered. During the operation, which is in principle minimally invasive, i.e. using a keyhole technique, a camera and a surgical instrument are introduced to the injured muscle through small incisions.

Small clamps or sutures are placed in the area of the torn muscle to stabilize the muscle again. The skin is then closed over it again. Subsequently, consistent physiotherapy must be started.

The chances of healing a torn muscle fiber in the shoulder area are good. However, the result varies depending on the extent and severity of the injury. It is important that the shoulder is cooled and spared for a few days immediately after the injury to the muscles (occurrence of severe pain, restricted movement) or at the latest after the diagnosis by a doctor, until the symptoms subside.

Furthermore, the further procedure should be discussed with the physician to determine whether a conservative therapy is sufficient and, if necessary, surgical therapy should be considered. It is important to adhere to the therapy plan, because if it is not carried out, there can be severe damage to the muscles with further movement restrictions. This is known as chronic complaints due to the conversion of muscle fibers into scar tissue.