The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles in your shoulder that help to stabilize and move your shoulder joint. This muscle group can tear due to repetitive overuse or a direct injury. Recognizing a rotator cuff tear is the first step to seeking treatment, so let’s break down the signs and symptoms.
Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with a rotator cuff tear:
- Persistent Pain: One of the most notable signs of a rotator cuff tear is recurrent pain in your shoulder. If the tear is caused by a fall or hit, the pain will be immediate. If the tear has developed slowly due to overuse, pain may start as a dull ache when you move your arm certain ways but eventually, this pain will worsen.
- Muscle Weakness: If your rotator cuff muscles are torn, they will undoubtedly be weakened. It may be especially difficult to lift and lower your arm due to this weakness. If the tear is due to a sudden injury, this weakness will be immediate. But if it is due to overuse, the weakness will slowly progress.
- Decreased Range of Motion: The shoulder joint has the largest range of motion of all our body’s joints. When the rotator cuff tears, this range is compromised. If you are experiencing stiffness or are unable to fully rotate your arm, this could indicate a rotator cuff tear.
- Cracking Noise: When the rotator cuff tears, some bone surfaces may be exposed and rub against each other causing a cracking or popping noise.
- Difficulty Sleeping: If your shoulder pain is so extreme that it is disrupting your sleep schedule, especially when you lie on the injured shoulder, this is a telltale sign of a rotator cuff tear.
It is important to recognize the signs of a rotator cuff tear so that you can seek immediate treatment if necessary. The earlier you receive a diagnosis and treatment, the better the outcome. If you think you might have torn your rotator cuff, contact our physicians at South Palm Orthopedics for world-class care!
The physicians at South Palm Orthopedics specialize in orthopedic conditions ranging from trauma to joint replacement. Our team is committed to providing the highest orthopedic care level to every patient, every time. Our team of physicians provides an advanced level of care, integrating the newest techniques with proven traditional methods of treatment.