A rotator cuff injury often
occurs as a result of overuse, a collision, or a fall on an outstretched
hand. Sports that require you to use repeated overhead arm motion or occupations
requiring heavy lifting also place a strain on rotator cuff tendons and
muscles and increase your risk of developing a rotator cuff injury.
Most often, people with a
rotator cuff injury report pain at the top and outer side of the shoulder
(over the deltoid muscle), especially when the arm is raised or extended
out to the side. Activities that require these types of movements,
such as getting dressed, can be quite painful. The shoulder may feel weak,
especially when trying to lift the arm into a horizontal position. There
may also be a clicking or popping when the shoulder is moved. An arthrogram
may be used to confirm rotator cuff injuries.
Conservative treatment including
resting the shoulder, applying heat or cold to the sore area, and taking
medicine to relieve pain and inflammation may be the first line of treatment.
Other treatments might be added, such as electrical stimulation of muscles
and nerves, ultrasound, or a cortisone injection. A sling may be used to
help keep the shoulder still. Exercise may be used to build flexibility
and strength and restore the shoulder's function. However, if there is
no improvement with conservative treatments the injury may need to be surgically
repaired.
