Rotator Cuff Injury

A rotator cuff injury involves damage to the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. These muscles and tendons hold the arm in its socket and enable the arm to move. Injuries to the rotator cuff can range from mild strains and inflammation to complete tears.

Causes

  1. Repetitive Stress: Repeatedly performing the same shoulder motions can stress rotator cuff muscles and tendons, common in certain sports (like baseball or tennis) and jobs (like painting or cleaning windows).

  2. Acute Injury: This could be due to a fall, a direct blow to the shoulder, or lifting something heavy with a jerking motion.

  3. Age-Related Wear and Tear: As people age, the risk of rotator cuff injuries increases, often due to degenerative changes in the tendons.

  4. Lack of Blood Supply: As you age, blood flow to the rotator cuff decreases, impairing the body's natural ability to repair tendon damage.

  5. Bone Spurs: Over time, bone overgrowths (spurs) can develop on the underside of the acromion bone, rubbing against the rotator cuff tendon and weakening it, leading to a tear.

Symptoms

  • Pain and Tenderness: Especially when lifting and lowering the arm or with specific movements.

  • Weakness: Difficulty lifting objects or performing routine activities involving shoulder motion.

  • Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty reaching behind the back or overhead.

  • Nocturnal Pain: Pain that gets worse at night, often affecting sleep.

  • Crackling Sensation: When moving the shoulder in certain positions.

Treatment

  1. Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that cause shoulder pain and stress.

  2. Cold Packs: Applying ice to reduce pain and swelling.

  3. Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve flexibility and strength, and restore the range of motion.

  4. Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling.

  5. Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can be used for pain relief.

  6. Surgery: In severe cases, such as a large tear, surgical repair may be necessary. Surgical options include arthroscopic tendon repair, open tendon repair, tendon transfer, or shoulder replacement.

Prevention

  • Regular Exercise: Strengthening shoulder and upper back muscles to support the rotator cuff.

  • Proper Technique: Using the correct technique in sports and activities.

  • Gradual Increase in Activities: Avoid sudden increases in exercise intensity or duration.

It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan, especially for persistent, severe, or worsening symptoms.