Causes of Rotator Cuff Injury
Repetitive stress – activities which stress the same part of the body Lack of blood supply – the blood supply in the rotator cuff tendons lessen and the tendons get damaged Bone spurs – the bone may develop a growth and rub on the rotator cuff tendon causing pain Acute tear – occurs when you jerk the arm or lift something heavy and the tendon gets partially torn Degenerative tear – result of wearing down of the tendon over time
Types of rotator cuff injuries • Partial tear – damages the tendon but doesn’t sever it • Full-thickness tear – The tendon is completely torn
Symptoms 1. Pain at night when lying on affected shoulder 2. Pain when lifting and lowering arm 3. Weakness in arm and shoulder 4. Crackling when moving shoulder 5. Sudden tears can cause shooting pain up the arm 6. Degenerative tears develop over time and pain increases slowly
Tests to check for rotator cuff injury • Physical examination – To rule out arthritis or a pinched nerve • X-Ray – To check for bone spurs • MRI – To check for tissue and tendon damage/pinpoint area of the tear
Treatment Non-surgical • Rest. • Avoid activities that cause shoulder pain. • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication • Strengthening exercises and physical therapy • Steroid injection for severe pain
Surgical Treatment If your pain doesn’t get better with non surgical treatment, you may have to opt for surgical options. Your doctor will recommend surgical options in case: • Pain doesn’t reduce in 6 to 12 months • Tear becomes larger • Significant weakness in arm • Loss of function in your shoulder • An acute injury
Rehabilitation This will include: • Pain medication • Rest • Physiotherapy
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