Oftentimes, rotator cuff injuries are capable of healing on their own with proper care. However, that may only be true with proactive treatment. Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay aims to help patients identify the signs of a rotator cuff injury by describing what it feels like as a frame of reference. Review the following warning signs and schedule a consultation at the first sign of shoulder injury:
What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, keeping the head of your upper arm bone firmly in the shallow socket. It plays a vital role in stabilizing your shoulder and enabling a full range of motion for activities like lifting, throwing, and reaching.
When a tear occurs—either from trauma or gradual wear—it can significantly affect your shoulder’s strength and flexibility.
What Does a Rotator Cuff Tear Feel Like?
1. Persistent Shoulder Pain
Rotator cuff tears often cause a deep, aching pain in the shoulder. This isn’t the sharp sting of a sudden injury—it’s a lingering, nagging discomfort that can last for weeks or months. The pain often worsens with movement and can feel especially intense when trying to sleep, particularly if you lie on the affected side.
2. Pain When Lifting or Reaching Overhead
One of the classic symptoms of a rotator cuff tear is pain when raising your arm above shoulder level. Actions like reaching into a cabinet, putting on a shirt, or washing your hair can trigger sharp or throbbing pain. This is often due to inflammation or the torn tendon rubbing against surrounding structures, known as shoulder impingement.
3. Shoulder Weakness
If your shoulder feels unusually weak, especially during overhead activities or when holding objects away from your body, this could indicate a tear. Tasks like lifting groceries, carrying a backpack, or even pouring a drink may become difficult. Weakness often results from the torn tendon failing to anchor the muscle effectively.
4. Limited Range of Motion
A rotator cuff tear may cause stiffness and a reduced range of motion. You might find it hard to lift your arm fully, rotate it, or move it behind your back. Over time, if left untreated, this can progress to frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), where motion becomes even more restricted.
5. Clicking, Popping, or Grinding Sensations
If you notice clicking, popping, or a grinding sound when moving your shoulder, it could be due to a torn or fraying tendon. These sounds may be accompanied by discomfort and often suggest that the smooth gliding of the shoulder joint is disrupted. This can also be a sign of tendinopathy or impingement syndrome.
6. Worsening Pain at Night
Many individuals with a rotator cuff tear find their symptoms worsen at night. The pain may intensify when lying on the affected shoulder or simply from the inflammation building up throughout the day. This can lead to frequent sleep disturbances and make recovery more difficult if ignored.
Don’t Ignore the Signs
Rotator cuff tears can range from mild to severe—but they rarely heal on their own. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to avoiding long-term shoulder dysfunction. Treatment options may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, orthobiologic injections like PRP, or in more serious cases, surgical repair.
Treat Your Rotator Cuff Injury at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay
We offer comprehensive shoulder treatment at Orthopaedic Medical Group of Tampa Bay. We work closely with our patients to come up with the best treatment plan possible for rotator cuff tears alongside advice on what to expect after rotator cuff surgery. We will gladly answer any questions you may have and personally guide you every step of the way.
