Rotator Cuff Tears Treatment Specialist in San Ramon, CA

At Golden State Medical Center, we frequently help patients who are experiencing the discomfort and limitation caused by rotator cuff tears. If you’re noticing persistent pain in your shoulder—especially pain that worsens when lifting your arm or reaching overhead—it may be a sign of a rotator cuff injury. Many of our patients report that the pain is more severe at night, often disrupting their sleep, particularly when they lie on the affected side.
 
Weakness in the arm is another common symptom, making everyday tasks like combing your hair or lifting groceries more challenging. Some individuals also notice a crackling or popping sensation (crepitus) when moving the shoulder, along with stiffness and a reduced range of motion. In certain cases, swelling or tenderness around the shoulder joint can also occur. The severity of these symptoms can vary, depending on whether the tear developed suddenly due to an injury or gradually from overuse.
 
We offer comprehensive evaluations and a range of treatment options—including physical therapy, minimally invasive procedures, and regenerative medicine—to help restore function and relieve pain.

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the tendons stabilizing your shoulder become damaged or torn. This type of injury can happen suddenly—such as after a fall onto an outstretched arm or when lifting something heavy with a jerking motion—or it can develop gradually due to repetitive overhead activities. We often treat athletes involved in sports like baseball or tennis, as well as individuals whose work requires frequent overhead movement, as they are at increased risk for this injury.
 
Age-related wear and tear is another major factor, and as we age, the tendons in our shoulders naturally weaken, making them more susceptible to tears. Additionally, factors such as poor blood supply to the tendons or the presence of bone spurs can increase the risk by adding extra friction or pressure on the rotator cuff.

At Golden State Medical Center, our experienced team uses advanced diagnostic techniques to accurately identify the cause and extent of your rotator cuff injury. We offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs—whether through physical therapy, non-surgical interventions, or, when necessary, referral for surgical options.

Diagnosing a rotator cuff tear involves a comprehensive approach to ensure the most accurate results and the best possible care for our patients. Our experienced healthcare providers begin with a detailed medical history, asking about the onset, duration, and characteristics of your shoulder pain, as well as any history of injury, repetitive overhead activities, or previous shoulder problems.

During your visit, our team will perform a thorough physical examination of your shoulder. We use specific tests and maneuvers to assess the function of your rotator cuff muscles and to check for signs of a tear, such as weakness during arm elevation or rotation.
 
If a rotator cuff tear is suspected, Golden State Medical Center offers advanced imaging studies. X-rays are commonly performed first to rule out other causes of shoulder pain, like arthritis or bone spurs. For a more detailed assessment, we utilize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which provides high-resolution images of the muscles and tendons in your shoulder—helping us pinpoint the size and location of any tear. In certain cases, an ultrasound may be used as an alternative to MRI.
 
By combining our expertise with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, Golden State Medical Center ensures that each patient receives an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan for rotator cuff injuries.

At Golden State Medical Center, we offer comprehensive care for patients experiencing rotator cuff tears. The most appropriate treatment plan depends on the severity of the injury, as well as the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health. Our experienced team takes an individualized approach to ensure optimal recovery and a return to your daily activities.
 
For many patients with mild or partial rotator cuff tears, Golden State Medical Center provides a variety of effective non-surgical treatments. These may include a combination of rest, activity modification to avoid movements that aggravate your pain, and application of ice to reduce inflammation. Our physical therapy team develops customized programs aimed at restoring shoulder strength, flexibility, and overall function. We also offer pain management options such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and, when appropriate, corticosteroid injections to help control pain and swelling.
 
If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the tear is more severe and leads to significant weakness or loss of function, our orthopedic specialists may recommend surgical intervention. We utilize advanced arthroscopic techniques, which involve small incisions and a camera to precisely repair the damaged tendon. For more complex cases, open surgical repair, tendon transfer, or even shoulder replacement procedures may be considered.

No matter which treatment path is chosen, our commitment to your recovery continues after surgery with a tailored rehabilitation plan developed by our expert physical therapy team. This typically includes a period of immobilization, followed by gradual exercises to restore strength and mobility to your shoulder.

At Golden State Medical Center, Dr. Steven Scott Newman, D.C. and his team specialize in innovative treatments for rotator cuff tears in San Ramon, CA. With a holistic approach, they combine chiropractic care, physical rehabilitation, and advanced therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to promote healing and restore mobility. Dr. Newman’s focus is on treating the root causes of pain, helping patients recover more effectively and return to their active lifestyles. Each treatment plan is personalized to ensure the best outcomes for long-term shoulder health. The team takes the time to understand each patient’s unique condition and creates a comprehensive recovery strategy. Whether you’re dealing with acute pain or a long-standing injury, their goal is to help you regain strength and function, so you can enjoy a pain-free, active life once again.
 
At Golden State Medical Center, we believe in patient-centered care. Our providers work closely with you to determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs and goals. If you are experiencing shoulder pain or suspect a rotator cuff injury, visit our experienced team. For more information, please contact us or request an appointment online. We are located at 2551 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Suite 108. San Ramon, CA 94583. We serve patients from San Ramon CA, Dublin CA, Blackhawk CA, Danville CA, Alamo CA, Diablo CA, Dougherty CA, Tassajara CA, Livermore CA, and Pleasanton CA.