Rotator cuff injuries are a common concern for many people, particularly those who engage in overhead activities or sports such as baseball or tennis. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help to stabilize and move the arm. When these muscles and tendons become damaged or torn, it can cause significant pain and weakness in the shoulder, making even simple tasks difficult.
At Rytel Sports Medicine, Dr. Michael Rytel is dedicated to providing top-quality shoulder care as one of the top orthopedic surgeons in Pittsburgh.
Here is how to know if you have a rotator cuff injury.
You Are Suffering From Pain That Won't Subside
If you are experiencing persistent pain in your shoulder that won't subside, it is possible that you may be suffering from a rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, and injuries to this area are common, particularly in people who engage in activities that involve repetitive overhead movements.
Rotator cuff tear symptoms can vary depending on the type of injury, with some people experiencing mild discomfort while others may have severe pain and loss of function. It's important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, as delaying treatment can lead to more serious complications, such as frozen shoulder or irreversible muscle damage.
A healthcare professional can diagnose a rotator cuff injury through a physical examination, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI, and other diagnostic procedures. Treatment options for a rotator cuff tear may include rest, physical therapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.
By seeking prompt medical attention, you can get an accurate diagnosis and develop a rotator cuff tear treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs, helping you to achieve optimal recovery and restore normal function to your shoulder.
You’re Experiencing Limited Range of Motion
If you are experiencing limited motion in your shoulder, it is possible that you may have a torn rotator cuff. There are several types of rotator cuff injuries, including strains, tears, and tendinitis, which can occur due to overuse, trauma, or degeneration over time. However, limited motion is often one of the most common and noticeable symptoms of a rotator cuff injury.
The severity of limited motion can vary depending on the extent of the injury, with some people being unable to lift their arm at all, while others may have difficulty extending their arm fully. It's important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing limited motion in your shoulder, as this can lead to more serious complications and long-term disability if left untreated.
A healthcare professional can diagnose a rotator cuff injury through a physical examination, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI, and other diagnostic procedures. Treatment options for a rotator cuff injury may include rest, physical therapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.
You’re Feeling Arm Weakness
When the rotator cuff is injured, it can cause weakness in the affected arm, making it difficult to perform even simple tasks such as brushing your hair or lifting a lightweight object. The severity of arm weakness can vary depending on the extent of the injury, with some people experiencing mild weakness while others may have difficulty moving their arm at all.
In severe cases, a rotator cuff injury can lead to muscle atrophy, a partial tear, or irreversible damage to the shoulder joint, which can result in long-term disability. It's important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing arm weakness or any other symptoms of a rotator cuff injury, as early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent further damage and improve your chances of full recovery.
By seeking prompt medical attention, you can get an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that is specific to your condition and can help you gain back control of your body.
You’re in Pain During Sleep
A rotator cuff injury can occur from overuse, a sudden impact, or degeneration from aging. The most common symptoms include pain, weakness, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. This pain can be particularly disruptive at night, as people often unconsciously change positions, which can interrupt the healing process and exacerbate the damage.
Additionally, sleeping on the affected side can put pressure on the injured area, leading to discomfort and worsening pain. Rotator cuff injuries are prevalent among athletes, but they can also occur in non-athletic individuals, especially those who engage in repetitive overhead activities or have poor posture.
If you're experiencing shoulder pain during sleep, it's essential to seek professional medical advice promptly. An early diagnosis and treatment plan can prevent further damage and promote optimal healing. Treatment options for rotator cuff injuries can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but generally include rest, ice, physical therapy, and in some severe cases, surgery.
Physical therapy is often recommended to help regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the shoulder. Surgery may be necessary for more severe injuries or if non-surgical treatments are ineffective.
You Have Popping or Clicking Noises
Popping or clicking noises in the shoulder can indicate a rotator cuff injury due to the damage that occurs within the joint. These muscles and tendons are attached to the bones by ligaments, which hold them in place. When the joint moves, the muscles and tendons glide smoothly over the bones, allowing for comfortable movement. However, when the rotator cuff is injured, it can cause the bones within the joint to rub against one another, leading to the popping or clicking noise.
The noise is usually caused by a buildup of gas bubbles within the synovial fluid, which is a lubricating liquid that helps the joint move smoothly. When the bones move against each other, the pressure changes within the joint and can cause the gas bubbles to burst, resulting in a clicking or popping sound. This sound can also be a sign of damaged cartilage within the joint, which can cause the bones to rub together more forcefully, resulting in a louder noise.
Additionally, popping or clicking noises can also indicate a rotator cuff injury if they're accompanied by pain, stiffness, or weakness in the shoulder. These symptoms can occur when the rotator cuff muscles and tendons are damaged, causing inflammation and irritation in the joint. In severe cases, the rotator cuff can tear, leading to significant pain, weakness, and limited mobility in the shoulder.
Overall, if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment and regain strength of your body.
If you or a loved one is struggling with shoulder pain that may be a rotator cuff injury, don't wait, contact Dr. Michael Rytel at Michael Rytel, MD Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine for a comprehensive evaluation or schedule an appointment directly from our website today.
