The rotator cuff is the tendon that holds the ball and socket of the shoulder joint together, and a rotator cuff tear is one of the most common shoulder injuries. This can make many daily activities painful and difficult to perform.
Do you have or think you might a rotator cuff tear? Read through our Q&A below.
What Causes a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The tear can occur from a fall or trauma. While this is common for other kinds of joint injuries, rotator cuff tears usually develop slowly from overhead activities, like racquet sports, pitching, swimming, volleyball or overhead weightlifting. It can also be due to a job that involves lifting or just everyday use.
It can take years for a rotator cuff tear to develop, so it’s not uncommon for patients with this injury to be in their 40s through 70s.
What are the Symptoms of a Tear?
Symptoms include:
- Pain in the shoulder area or side of the arm
- Pain that worsens at night
- Difficulty reaching overhead or behind your back
- Arm weakness or stiffness
It’s important not to wait to see a surgeon until the pain is severe. Rotator cuff tears can enlarge over time, and some major tears may not be repairable. It’s best to consult a doctor when symptoms develop.
How are Rotator Cuff Tears Treated?
Most rotator cuffs can be repaired using minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, which only requires three to five tiny incisions with small surgical instruments.
Patients typically return home the same day of the surgery wearing a sling. They are then put on a home exercise program for the first month before going to physical therapy for two to four months. Typically patients can regain
The University of Maryland Rehabilitation Network, a coordinated system of inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation providers working together to help people recover from illness or injury, can provide you with high-quality physical therapy services close to home.
