Rotator Cuff Tear

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that work to move the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff can be torn from overuse or injury. A torn rotator cuff can cause pain with shoulder movement and make it difficult to use your shoulder for daily activities.

We take an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to successfully diagnose and treat this condition. We look at non-surgical options first.

If you have a rotator cuff tear, it's important to seek treatment as soon you can because with time, some rotator cuff tears can become too big to fix and may require a more complex surgery.

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear

Only a physician can make this diagnosis, but some typical symptoms include:

1. Pain at night and at rest, particularly if you're lying on the affected shoulder
2. Pain when when you lift and lower your arm or with certain movements
3. Weakness when you lift or rotate your arm

Diagnosing a Torn Rotator Cuff

Diagnosis involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. These help in confirming the diagnosis and planning the appropriate treatment.

Treatment for a Torn Rotator Cuff

Non-surgical Treatment for a Torn Rotator Cuff your physician may recommend non-surgical treatments such as:

1. Changing your activities so the stress isn't on your shoulder
2. Exercises to strengthen your shoulder
3. Physical therapy
4. Rest
5. Steroid Injections

Non-surgical treatment may be best if you just want relief from pain and the ability to function again. If you use your shoulder for strenuous work or athletics, you may be a better candidate for surgery.

Contact Us

You're about to make an important decision, and we want to help you make a good one. Our staff will be glad to talk with you about your options and how we can help.