What You Should Know About Rotator Cuff Injuries

If you've experienced shoulder pain, it's possible that you have a rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff consists of the muscles and tendons that keep the shoulder and arm attached. These muscles and tendons are the parts that ensure you can lift your arm. 

A rotator cuff injury can range from a minor strain to a complete tear of the muscle or tendon. If you're living with shoulder pain, here's what you need to know.

The Most Common Rotator Cuff Injuries Involve Lifting

One of the most common causes of rotator cuff injuries is lifting something that's too heavy. The tendons and muscles in your rotator cuff can become strained or torn when you try to lift something that's beyond your physical limits.

This type of injury is especially common in people who work in jobs that require them to lift heavy objects on a regular basis. If you have a job that involves lifting, it's important to use proper technique and to take frequent breaks to avoid putting too much strain on your rotator cuff.

Other Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

In addition to lifting heavy objects, there are several other activities that can lead to a rotator cuff injury. These activities include repetitive motions, falls, sports injuries, and sudden-impact injuries.

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury Can Vary

The most common symptom of a rotator cuff injury is pain. This pain may be constant or it may only occur when you move your arm in a certain way. Other symptoms of a rotator cuff injury can include weakness, stiffness, and a limited range of motion. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor so that you can get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Several Treatment Options Can Help

There are a number of different treatment options for rotator cuff injuries, depending on the severity of the injury. In some cases, rest and ice may be all that is needed to help the injury heal. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons around the rotator cuff.

If the injury is more severe, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. Surgery is usually only recommended if nonsurgical treatments haven't been effective in relieving pain and restoring function.

Most People With Rotator Cuff Injuries Improve With Treatment

With proper treatment, most people with rotator cuff injuries are able to relieve their pain and improve their range of motion. If you're living with shoulder pain, don't wait to get it checked out. See a doctor so you can get an accurate diagnosis and start on the road to recovery.

Contact a local doctor's office, such as Sports and Orthopedic Specialists, to learn more.