Rotator Cuff Injuries- Symptoms and Treatment

Kansas City residents shoulder a lot of responsibility. They are often called upon to lend a shoulder to a friend in need; the weight of the world rests there. Clichés aside, once in a while pain in the shoulder comes along and slows down this useful this part of the body. The source of the pain is often found in a rotator cuff injury.

What it is

It is important to understand that the rotator cuff is a group of four tendons and muscles. These muscles and tendons surround the shoulder joint; the tendons connect the muscles to the bone. An injury to the rotator cuff is an injury to these tendons. Torn or inflamed tendons cannot function properly and cause pain.

Rotator cuff injury symptoms

Pain is the most common symptom of an injury to the rotator cuff. The area of pain patients most often complain about is over the top of the shoulder and the arm. Pain can also radiate down the outside of the arm clear to the elbow. Weakness in the shoulder is another symptom patients commonly report. This weakness can cause difficulty lifting the arm up and overhead. Normal activities like getting dressed, reaching for and carrying things around the house are hard to do with weakness from a rotator cuff injury. Lowering the arm from a raised position can also cause pain. Sometimes, patients with a rotator cuff tear experience a crackling sensation in the shoulder.

How the rotator cuff is injured

Sometimes, a single injury can cause a tear in the tendons and muscles. Rotator cuff injuries can happen alongside another shoulder injury, such as a fracture or dislocation. The majority of tears happen as a result of the continual use of the shoulder over many years. Certain occupations and sports that require repetitive overhead motions contribute to the likelihood of developing a tear.

Rotator cuff tears occur most commonly in patients over age 40; tears in younger patients are commonly the result of a trauma. In the event of a sudden injury, patients may experience a snapping sensation after significant pain, followed by weakness in the arm. In the beginning, the pain may be mild after the initial injury. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often sufficient. Over time, however, the pain can increase

Treatment

The good news is that most rotator cuff injuries can be treated without surgery. Rotator cuff tear treatments can include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory pain medications, and cortisone shots. Therapy focuses on strengthening the shoulder muscles that were not injured and reducing inflammation.

Patients that do not respond to less invasive treatments may require surgery. Several rotator cuff injury surgical options exist depending upon the scope of the injury and other factors and the level of activity expected following surgery. Recovery time and rehabilitation following surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery and the initial injury.

When the negligence of another results in an injury like a rotator cuff tear, you may have questions about your rights. Download a free copy of our resource guide 10 Essential Steps You Must Take To Protect Your Injury Claim for more information. Contact the Kansas City personal injury attorneys at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys by calling 888-348-2616 to schedule a free consultation.

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