Rotator cuff tears typically present like the impingement syndrome patient, with trouble with overhead activities. The difference between the two is that the patient with a rotator cuff tear may have a more traumatic and acute onset after lifting somehthing heavy, or falling on an outstretched arm. This all creates pain and weakness when lifting the arm overhead.

Cause of rotator cuff tear.

The most common rotator cuff tear is of the supraspinatus. It is important to note that the rotator cuff is comprised of 4 different muscles. These muscles include the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and the teres minor.

Muscles of the rotator cuff.

The two different types are identified by how much of the tendon is torn. Partial thickness and full thickness tears. The two common locations are in the upper tendon, or bursal side, and the articular side, or lower portion. Typical causes are from acute injury, lifting something or pulling something heavy, and degenerative tearing. The degenerative tearing typically occurs on the lower portion of the tendon and can be from underuse or deconditioning.

Treatment of rotator cuff injury.

Typical treatment consists of conservative measures like activity modification and rest. Also NSAIDs may be used. If conservative management fails to resolve the pain to patient expectations, or weakness is too great, then surgery may be the next best option. As mentioned earlier conservative and surgical management yeild about the same as far as improvement in pain. Weakness may be more improved through surgical management. Therapies that are done to the area of tear include, interferential therapy to release the bodies own pain killers and modulate pain, and continuous ultrasound. After pain has been reduced, rehabilitation can begin. This typically focuses on strengthening of the rotator cuff muscles.

Seeing a chiropractic orthopedist.

Seeing a specialist in chiropractic orthopedics can be the first stop for shoulder pain. This focuses on the correct diagnosis and treatment formulation, to stimulate healing. The use of standard imaging like Xray can be performed in office, and if necessary additional advanced imaging can be performed. This includes MRI. Seeking a conservative approach to rotator cuff injury can reduce recovery time.

If you suffer from shoulder pain, don’t hesitate, get in for proper diagnosis and treatment. call us today at 540 898 4100 or visit us here!