Are you struggling with persistent shoulder pain? Do simple tasks like reaching overhead or lifting a bag feel unbearable? If so, you may be dealing with a rotator cuff injury. Rotator cuff pain is a common issue affecting thousands of people. Understanding its root cause and knowing what steps to take can make all the difference in your recovery.
This blog breaks down everything you need to know about rotator cuff injuries, from their causes to effective treatment options.
What is the Rotator Cuff?
Your rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround your shoulder joint – these muscles and tendons work together to help lift and rotate your arm while also stabilizing your shoulder.
Whether you are reaching for items on a high shelf, playing a sport like tennis, or swimming, your rotator cuff allows your shoulder to move seamlessly through a wide range of motions.
However, as strong as this system is, it is also highly vulnerable to injury due to the repetitive use and significant demands placed on it.
Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Pain
Rotator cuff pain can result from various causes, including injuries, wear and tear, and specific medical conditions. Here are some of the most common reasons you might experience rotator cuff pain:
Tendonitis
Rotator cuff tendonitis is a condition that occurs when the tendons in the shoulder become inflamed, often due to repetitive motion or overuse. This inflammation can lead to pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility in the shoulder.
People who perform repetitive arm movements as part of their daily activities or occupations—such as athletes, painters, or carpenters—are more prone to developing tendonitis. The repeated strain on the tendons causes irritation, which may worsen if the activity continues without proper rest or treatment.
Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder impingement is a condition where the rotator cuff tendons become compressed or “pinched” between the bones of the shoulder joint, particularly when lifting the arm overhead. This occurs because the space in the shoulder joint narrows, putting pressure on the tendons.
It often results in sharp pain, weakness, or difficulty performing activities that involve reaching or lifting. Shoulder impingement is commonly seen in athletes who frequently use overhead motions, such as swimmers, baseball players, or tennis players, but it can also affect others with similar repetitive movements.
Rotator Cuff Tear
A rotator cuff tear happens when one or more tendons in the rotator cuff become torn. This can occur due to a sudden injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm, or as the result of gradual wear and tear over time.
Tears can be partial, where the tendon is damaged but not completely severed, or a complete tear, where the tendon is entirely torn away. Symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include intense shoulder pain, weakness in the arm, and difficulty lifting or rotating the shoulder.
If left untreated, a torn rotator cuff can lead to long-term loss of function and mobility.
Degeneration
Degeneration of the rotator cuff is a natural process that occurs as tendons lose their elasticity and strength with age. This age-related wear and tear can make the tendons more prone to injury, even during normal daily activities.
Degeneration of the rotator cuff is more common in individuals over the age of 40 and can lead to persistent shoulder pain and stiffness. Over time, degenerative changes in the rotator cuff tendons may also increase the risk of tendonitis or tears.
Maintaining good shoulder health through regular exercise, stretching, and avoiding overuse can help slow down this degenerative process.
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury
How do you know if your rotator cuff is injured? Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but some common signs to watch for include:
- A dull ache deep in the shoulder
- Difficulty raising the arm above your head
- Weakness in the shoulder when lifting or rotating the arm
- Pain that worsens at night, especially if you sleep on the affected side
- Clicking or popping sounds when you move the shoulder
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to consult a medical expert.
Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Options
Rotator cuff treatments aim to reduce pain, restore shoulder function, and prevent further damage to the joint. Treatment approaches depend on the severity of the injury and can range from non-invasive methods to surgical intervention.
Rest and Activity Modification
For minor injuries or tendonitis, resting the shoulder and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain might be enough to allow the rotator cuff to heal.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often a first-line treatment for rotator cuff injuries. A therapist will guide you through exercises designed to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder and improve joint mobility.
Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and alleviate rotator cuff pain. However, it is essential to use these medications under the guidance of a medical provider.
Corticosteroid Injections
For severe rotator cuff pain or inflammation, a doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection. This treatment provides temporary relief by reducing inflammation in the joint.
However, it should not be used repeatedly as overuse can weaken tendons.
Surgery
If the rotator cuff is significantly torn or the treatments above do not provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical repair aims to reattach the torn tendon.
Minimally invasive approaches, such as arthroscopy, are commonly used for rotator cuff surgery and are associated with faster recovery times.
Rotator Cuff Pain Treatment in Maryland
At The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists, our team of experienced orthopedic doctors is dedicated to providing personalized care for your rotator cuff injury. Our orthopedic specialists work closely with skilled physical therapists to create tailored treatment plans for each patient.
Schedule an appointment today by calling (301) 515-0900 or by scheduling online. We look forward to serving you!
