More than two million Americans experience a rotator cuff problem each year1. Rotator cuff tears affect people of all ages and genders, but the problem is more common in adults. Rotator cuff tears can also result from sudden shoulder movements or overuse injuries during sports, such as pitching in baseball or playing tennis. The risk of rotator cuff tears increases with age. As we age, the tendons and muscles begin to degenerate and weaken.
A rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround and protect the shoulder joint. When the rotator cuff is injured, it can cause a dull ache in the shoulder that typically worsens at night. The injured shoulder will have trouble doing overhead tasks and is usually weak.
Signs of a rotator cuff tear:
- Pain: A dull, deep ache in the shoulder occurs with specific movements such aslifting and lowering the arm. Discomfort is often experienced even during rest, andtrouble sleeping at night is typical. Swelling and tenderness may also be attributedto the tear.
- Weakness and limited mobility: Using the arm to lift or rotate to perform specifictasks may be more difficult or impossible, like lifting, combing your hair, or reachingbehind your back
- Popping or clicking sounds: Rotator cuff injuries can make a popping, clicking, orcrackling sound when the shoulder or arm is moved.
If you suspect you have a torn rotator cuff, do not keep using it, as you may cause furtherdamage by creating a more significant tear. A complete tear can make it almost impossibleto move your arm. Without immediate treatment, you may experience chronic shoulderpain and find it challenging to use the injured arm. If you think you may have torn yourrotator cuff consult the experts at South Palm Orthopedics for an evaluation & treatmentrecommendation call today at (561) 496-6622.
Dr. Russell D. Weisz is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a one-year fellowship in orthopedictraumatology. Dr. Weisz completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the New York University-Hospitalfor Joint Diseases, publishing papers and giving national presentations on fracture treatment and jointreplacement surgery. Dr. Weisz has performed a tremendous amount of minimally invasive hip fracturesurgeries and is committed to staying in the forefront of treating complex fractures and fractures thatdon’t heal. Our team of physicians provides an advanced level of care, integrating the newestcutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical techniques, with proven traditional methods of treatments. Thephysicians at South Palm Orthopedics are committed to providing the highest level of orthopedic care toeach and every patient each and every time.
1. orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/rotator-cuff-tears