Rotator Cuff Tear

What is a rotator cuff tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder that connects the bone in the arm (humerus) to the shoulder blade (scapula). The rotator cuff allows for stability and flexibility while moving the shoulder. There are four muscles in the rotator cuff, and any of these can be injured or torn. When this happens, there may be pain or weakness. Sometimes, a rotator cuff tear will prevent a person from being able to raise his or her arm at all.

What are the causes of a rotator cuff tear?

Rotator cuff tears may result from an injury or progress over time. Injuries can be caused by a fall, blow or strong force pulling the arm. Tears that occur over time tend to be more common and result from wear and tear of the rotator cuff. Repetitive overhead activities cause the most damage to the rotator cuff; these can include painting walls, washing windows, playing tennis, swimming or lifting weights incorrectly. Posture is also a factor, as slouching or hunching your shoulders forward decreases the space available for the rotator cuff to move freely, causing friction. This can lead to inflammation and, eventually, a tear.

What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear?

If there is a tear, there may be pain in the upper arm, which can worsen with movement, lifting, poor posture and sleeping. Depending on the type of tear, there may also be difficulty lifting the arm or reaching behind the head and back.

What is the treatment for a rotator cuff tear?

First, consult with a doctor to evaluate the shoulder. Whether or not surgery is needed, therapy is recommended to decrease pain and improve posture, range of motion and strength. With therapy, many patients have relief of their symptoms and are able to avoid surgery. If surgery is necessary to repair the torn tendons, the arm may be held in a sling for four to six weeks. After surgery, a therapist will explain how to safely move while protecting the repair. A repair can be damaged if these restrictions are not followed.

What can a hand therapist do for me?

Following surgery, the therapist will monitor and guide a patient’s progress based on the surgeon’s recommendations. Initially, therapy will involve gaining motion in the shoulder through passive movement, where the good arm works to move the arm that was operated on. Heat and ice may be used to help manage pain. A hand therapist can also demonstrate safe performance of daily activities and sleeping positions to ease pain at night. As the repair heals, the arm can move unassisted, and eventually strengthening can begin. Exercises to work on posture and core strength might also be a part of therapy. When the repair is strong enough, a therapist will help with return to hobbies, sports and work.

If you are struggling with a rotator cuff tear, contact Hands for Living in Lynnwood, WA for a visit and let’s get you on the road to recovery.