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I previously discussed the rotator cuff anatomy and the causes of rotator cuff tears. In this post, I will review the torn rotator cuff symptoms.
First let’s review some rotator cuff basics:
Now let’s review the common torn rotator cuff symptoms.
Many people who have a tear in their rotator cuff have no symptoms. In fact it is estimated that 50-60% of people over the age of 60 have a rotator cuff tear and no symptoms. These asymptomatic tears typically occur in older patients and with tears caused by slow wear rather than an acute injury.
Those that are symptomatic usually have some combination of the following shoulder symptoms:
The torn rotator cuff symptoms can be different for those with tears that develop slowly over time versus those who have tears that develop rapidly from trauma .
The development of symptoms in these people often has one of two patterns:
These tears occur in previously normal shoulders. They develop as a result of a traumatic injury. The symptoms usually become significant rather quickly, either at the time of the injury or shortly thereafter. There is often considerable pain and weakness. Attempts at raising the arm frequently increase the pain. Lowering the arm from a raised position can be even more painful, as is sleeping. Outward signs of bruising, swelling or deformity of the shoulder are rare and usually mean that there are other associated injuries.
If you have any of these symptoms, an Orthopaedic Sports Medicine doctor can help. 🙂 Delay in treatment, can affect outcome. So if you suffer from these symptoms, it is a good idea to get your shoulder evaluated.
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