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HomeAbout Prognosis and impactsIncidence and risk factorsSymptomsCauses and effectsDiagnosis and evaluation Management and treatment CopingStrategies for copingAsking for helpWork Family and friendsAdaptive aidsStress Resources ResearchConclusion

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Shoulder arthritis and rotator cuff tears: The combination of arthritis and rotator cuff tears is called rotator cuff tear arthropathy. The management of this condition requires thought and experience.

Edited By: Frederick A. Matsen III, M.D., Winston J. Warme, MD
Last updated Wednesday, October 28, 2009

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Coping

Strategies for coping

Individuals with shoulders afflicted with rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive cuff tear) may be able to cope with their condition by reducing their activity expectations. They may arrange their kitchen so that frequently used items are placed in lower shelves that are easier to access. They may purchase goods in smaller packages so that the packages are easier to lift. They may prefer a car that has controls in easier to reach positions. And, they may find that sleeping in a recliner is more comfortable that sleeping flat in a bed.


Asking for help

Individuals with shoulders afflicted with rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive cuff tear) should seek help from a specialist with experience in evaluating and managing this condition. Such individuals may be found in the shoulder services of major schools of medicine. Consultation by the Shoulder and Elbow Service at the University of Washington regarding the diagnosis and treatment of cuff tear arthropathy may be requested by using our online referrals website.

You can also call 206-598-0312 to make an appointment.

Work

Individuals with shoulders afflicted with rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive cuff tear) are often retired from work. However, for those who are still vocationally active, accommodations may be helpful. Placing files at levels that are easy to reach, minimizing the lifting expectations, and facilitating driving by selecting a vehicle that places minimal demands on the shoulder may all be helpful.

Family and friends

Families of individuals with shoulders afflicted with rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive cuff tear) can be of major help by assisting with tasks that require shoulder range of motion and strength as well as by arranging the home and the workplace in a shoulder-convenient manner.

Adaptive aids

Adaptive aids may be of assistance to individuals with shoulders afflicted with rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive cuff tear). A sling may support the arm when it becomes fatigued. Tools with extended handle may increase the reach of the individual.


Stress

Individuals with shoulders afflicted with rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive cuff tear) can reduce stress by making sure that they have put in place accommodations for their limited function.

Resources

Resources for individuals with shoulders afflicted with rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive cuff tear) may be found on additional parts of this site, including those concerning (1) the rotator cuff, (2) home exercises for the stiff shoulder, (3) home exercises for the weak shoulder, (4) home exercises for the arthritic shoulder, (5) the CTA (cuff tear arthropathy head prosthesis), and (6) the reverse Delta (reversed) prosthesis for cuff tear arthropathy.

Surgery for rotator cuff tear arthropathy (shoulder arthritis with a massive rotator cuff tear) at the University of Washington, Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Seattle, Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure in Seattle, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-BONE (2663) to make an appointment. Our clinical center is located in Seattle Washington, USA


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