Expert Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment in Glendale, Cedarburg, Wauwatosa, WI
A rotator cuff tear can make everyday activities such as lifting, reaching overhead, dressing, or sleeping comfortably difficult. Whether your injury developed gradually from repetitive use or occurred suddenly due to a fall or sports injury, early evaluation and treatment can help relieve pain and restore shoulder function. Dr. Jake Bauwens is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of rotator cuff tears for patients throughout Glendale, Cedarburg, Wauwatosa, WI.
Dr. Bauwens offers comprehensive care using the latest evidence-based treatment options, including non-surgical therapies and advanced arthroscopic rotator cuff repair when surgery is recommended. His personalized treatment approach is designed to relieve pain, restore strength and mobility, and help patients safely return to work, sports, and daily activities.- Wauwatosa
- Glendale
- Cedarburg
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What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The rotator cuff is a group of tendons in the shoulder joint that provides support and enables a wide range of motion. A major injury to these tendons may result in rotator cuff tears. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain in middle-aged and older individuals.
What are the Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears?
A rotator cuff tear may occur with repeated use of the arm for overhead activities, while playing sports, or from a motor accident.
What are the Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears?
A rotator cuff tear causes severe pain, weakness of the arm and crackling sensation on moving the shoulder in certain positions. There may be stiffness, swelling, loss of movement and tenderness in the front of the shoulder.
How is a Rotator Cuff Tear Diagnosed?
Your surgeon diagnoses a rotator cuff tear based on a physical examination and X-rays. A rotator cuff tear is best viewed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
What are the Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears?
Conservative treatment
The conservative treatment options for rotator cuff tears are:
- Rest
- Shoulder Sling
- Pain medication
- Injection of a steroid (cortisone) and a local anesthetic in the subacromial space of the affected shoulder to relieve inflammation and pain
- Exercises
Surgery for Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff repair may be performed by open or arthroscopic surgery. In arthroscopy, the space for rotator cuff tendons will be increased and the cuff tear is repaired using suture anchors. These anchor sutures help in attaching the tendons to the shoulder bone. Following the surgery, you may be advised to practice motion and strengthening exercises.
Jake D. Bauwens, M.D.
Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon
Dr. Jake Bauwens is an orthopaedic physician, specializing in sports medicine and sports-related injuries. Dr. Bauwens attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison to complete his Bachelors of Sciences in Biochemistry degree, and Rush University Medical College to complete his medical degree.
Why Choose Dr. Bauwens for Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment in Glendale, Cedarburg, and Wauwatosa, WI?
Dr. Jake Bauwens is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine specialist with advanced expertise in diagnosing and treating rotator cuff injuries. Whether your condition can be managed with conservative care or requires minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, he provides individualized treatment plans focused on restoring shoulder function and long-term joint health.
Patients throughout Glendale, Cedarburg, and Wauwatosa, WI choose Dr. Bauwens because of his:
- Fellowship training in sports medicine
- Expertise in diagnosing and treating rotator cuff tears
- Advanced arthroscopic shoulder surgery techniques
- Comprehensive treatment approach with both surgical and non-surgical options
- Experience treating athletes and active individuals
- Personalized care and rehabilitation plans
- Commitment to patient education and shared decision-making
- Focus on evidence-based treatment and long-term shoulder function
His goal is to help every patient reduce pain, regain shoulder strength, and return to an active lifestyle with confidence.
Rotator Cuff Tear FAQs
What is a rotator cuff tear?
A rotator cuff tear is a tear in one or more of the tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. The injury may occur suddenly from trauma or develop gradually due to repetitive overhead activities or age-related tendon degeneration.
What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear?
Common symptoms include shoulder pain, weakness when lifting or reaching overhead, limited range of motion, difficulty sleeping on the affected shoulder, and a clicking or crackling sensation during movement.
How is a rotator cuff tear diagnosed?
Dr. Bauwens performs a thorough physical examination and reviews your symptoms and medical history. Imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI scans are commonly used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and severity of the tear.
Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?
Some partial rotator cuff tears and less severe injuries may improve with conservative treatment, including rest, activity modification, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections. Larger or complete tears may require surgical repair to restore shoulder function.
When is rotator cuff surgery recommended?
Surgery may be recommended if you have a complete tear, persistent pain despite conservative treatment, significant weakness, or difficulty performing daily activities. Dr. Bauwens will recommend the treatment option that best fits your condition and lifestyle.
How long does recovery take after rotator cuff repair?
Recovery varies depending on the size of the tear and the procedure performed. Most patients wear a sling for several weeks, participate in physical therapy, and gradually regain shoulder strength over several months. Full recovery may take six months or longer.
Schedule a Rotator Cuff Tear Consultation in Glendale, Cedarburg, Wauwatosa, WI
If shoulder pain, weakness, or limited motion caused by a rotator cuff tear is affecting your daily activities, Dr. Jake Bauwens provides comprehensive evaluation and advanced treatment for patients throughout Glendale, Cedarburg, Wauwatosa, WI. Whether your condition can be managed with conservative care or requires arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, you'll receive personalized orthopaedic care focused on achieving the best possible outcome.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn about your treatment options for rotator cuff tears and other shoulder injuries.
