Your rotator cuff is formed by a group of muscles and tendons at the shoulder. Working together, they allow you to lift and rotate your arms. Tearing one of these tendons may result in shoulder pain and limited range of motion. Find out what you need to know about this ailment below.

Causes & Symptoms

A rotator cuff tear can be partial, in which the tendon is just frayed, or complete — in which case it pulls off the bone. When damage is minor, you may not even notice it. In serious cases, symptoms include shoulder pain, weakness, and limited mobility. You may also hear a clicking sound when moving the arm.

Rotator cuff tears commonly occur during physical activity that requires forceful use of the arms, such as baseball or tennis. In most cases, damage builds up over time through repetitive motions.

Another cause is the so-called impingement. This occurs when the tendons are injured and swell so they pinch the top of the shoulder joint, restricting blood flow. Impingement is more common in older adults, usually due to general wear and tear.

Treatment Options

If you notice shoulder pain or other symptoms, see a doctor. Without treatment, the situation can worsen and lead to a frozen shoulder. Physical therapy to strengthen the shoulder muscles, coupled with anti-inflammatories, may be enough to fix the problem.

If these measures aren’t sufficient, you may require surgery. This will involve stitching together the torn area or reattaching the tendon to the bone in the case of a full tear. The precise procedure will depend on the extent of your injuries.

For prompt care for a torn rotator cuff in Covington County, AL, turn to Physical Therapy of Andalusia. We have over 40 years of experience helping patients get past shoulder pain and regain mobility. Whether you’re recovering from athletic injuries or an operation, our team offers the compassion you need to get motivated on the path of rehabilitation. Find out more about our services online. To meet with one of our physical therapists in person, call us at (334) 222-5785 and schedule an appointment.