Is Your Rotator Cuff Damaged?
Shoulders play an important role in arm movement, particularly during sports. The shoulder consists of a group of tendons and muscles that wrap around the joint, forming the rotator cuff. Sometimes, due to overuse, pain and soreness can occur. If the pain persists, there may be severe damage in the form of a rotator cuff tear. Only a doctor can diagnose a tear using imaging, but some signs of the injury should not be ignored.
All torn up
A rotator cuff tear happens when the tendon is torn or damaged. This can be a partial or full-thickness tear, with the tendon completely detached from the bone. Most rotator cuff tears happen from repetitive motions in sports like baseball, tennis, and golf. In some cases, aging can reduce the blood supply, causing fraying that turns into a tear. People who lift heavy objects, fall, or have car accidents can suffer the injury too. Rotator cuff tears are common, with at least 2 million occurring every year.
Do you have chronic shoulder pain?
Constant pain is the first sign of a rotator cuff tear. The pain is usually a dull ache felt deeper in the shoulder. Some people know immediately after a fall, collision, or accident. Others develop the injury over time. The pain can be mild at first, then builds to a dull, chronic ache.
Weakness and limited mobility
Over time, the arm can lose strength and mobility. Lifting the arm overhead is painful and, at times, challenging. The ability to lift heavy objects, throw a ball, or perform repetitive motions also declines. If there is a significant decline in the quality of life, a tear may be the culprit.
A cracking sound
Is there a cracking sound when lifting the arm or moving the shoulder? This sound is called crepitus. Crepitus is a joint’s popping, cracking, or clicking with movement. This happens with age but can also happen when joint cartilage is loose. The tissue catches in spaces of the shoulder, creating a cracking sound. Crepitus and the other symptoms are a sign to visit a doctor immediately.
Try these treatment options
A general doctor or orthopedic specialist will perform physical tests, X-rays, or MRI scans to confirm a tear. The extent of damage will determine the treatment options for shoulder pain. Most candidates for partial tears can benefit from rest, slinging the shoulder, physiotherapy, or additional techniques like regenerative medicine. Surgery may be necessary for complete tears that do not respond to treatment. Minimally invasive procedures will allow an orthopedic surgeon to reattach the tendon to the bone. From there, extensive physical therapy and rest help patients become pain-free.
Beware the tear
Rotator cuff tears can severely limit the use of the shoulder and must be taken seriously. Look for the signs such as dull pain, weakness, and cracking sounds. If treated early, most patients can benefit from non-surgical means. For chronic shoulder pain, advanced surgery may be necessary.
Recent Posts
ORIF Surgery: How Can This Outpatient Procedure Help Heal Broken Bones?
Broken bones, especially those damaged in multiple places or penetrating the skin, require surgery. Outpatient ORIF surgery reduces scars, speeds up healing, and ensures better outcomes.
ACDF vs PLIF: Which Spine Surgery Is Right For Your Pain?
Spine surgery is recommended in severe cases of chronic pain that does not respond to treatment. Choose the right procedure between ACDF and PLIF.
ACL Surgery: Getting Back In The Game Stronger Than Ever
ACL surgery is a transformative surgery to repair or replace a torn anterior cruciate ligament. The right procedure and rehabilitation get athletes back into action faster.
Neurostimulator Trial: A Promising Option For Chronic Pain Relief
Addressing chronic pain can be challenging. A neurostimulator trial is an excellent option for long-term, non-surgical relief.
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
Recent Posts
ORIF Surgery: How Can This Outpatient Procedure Help Heal Broken Bones?
Broken bones, especially those damaged in multiple places or penetrating the skin, require surgery. Outpatient ORIF surgery reduces scars, speeds up healing, and ensures better outcomes.
ACDF vs PLIF: Which Spine Surgery Is Right For Your Pain?
Spine surgery is recommended in severe cases of chronic pain that does not respond to treatment. Choose the right procedure between ACDF and PLIF.
ACL Surgery: Getting Back In The Game Stronger Than Ever
ACL surgery is a transformative surgery to repair or replace a torn anterior cruciate ligament. The right procedure and rehabilitation get athletes back into action faster.
Neurostimulator Trial: A Promising Option For Chronic Pain Relief
Addressing chronic pain can be challenging. A neurostimulator trial is an excellent option for long-term, non-surgical relief.
