What Is a Torn Rotator Cuff?
A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the tendons in your shoulder detach partially or completely from the bone. These tendons help lift and rotate your arm, so when they’re torn, simple daily activities can become painful or difficult. Tears are common among adults and can happen suddenly after a fall or gradually due to wear and tear over time.
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How Do You Tear Your Rotator Cuff?
Rotator cuff tears are typically caused by either an acute injury or degeneration:
- Acute injury: Falls, heavy lifting or sudden jerking motions can tear the tendon away from the bone.
- Degenerative wear: Repetitive motions and aging can weaken tendons, making them more susceptible to tearing.
Athletes — especially baseball pitchers and tennis players — and people with physically demanding jobs like painters or carpenters are at higher risk since they use their shoulders so much.
What Does a Torn Rotator Cuff Feel Like?
The signs and symptoms of a rotator cuff tear may develop suddenly after a traumatic tear or gradually over time and can include:
- Shoulder pain at rest or during activity
- Pain that worsens at night or when lying on the affected shoulder
- Weakness when lifting or rotating your arm
- A cracking or popping sensation during movement
If your pain is persistent or you’re losing shoulder strength, it’s important to seek evaluation before the injury worsens.
Torn Rotator Cuff Treatment
Most people start with nonsurgical treatment for a rotator cuff tear, which successfully relieves symptoms in up to 85% of cases. This may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
- Cortisone injections for inflammation and pain relief
If pain persists after several months or you have a large or traumatic tear, your doctor may recommend surgery to reattach the tendon to the bone. Arthroscopic (minimally invasive) surgery is the most common approach and can often be done on an outpatient basis.
Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery
You may need to wear a sling for 4–6 weeks to protect the repair, followed by physical therapy to restore movement and strength.
Most patients regain functional motion and reduced pain within 4–6 months.
Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment at OrthoNebraska
Do you need help healing from a rotator cuff injury in the Omaha area? At OrthoNebraska, we want to make sure that our patients feel understood, safe and confident to take on an appropriate treatment plan. With proper management, we can help you reduce pain levels and improve quality of life.
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