Rotator Cuff Injury
Find out more about rotator cuff injury and how Torrance Pain Institute can help you manage your pain, improve your quality of life, and get back to doing the things you enjoy.
The rotator cuff refers to a group of muscles surrounding the shoulder joint. The shoulders are made up of three types of bone: the shoulder blade or scapula; the upper arm bone or humerus; and the collarbone or clavicle. The shoulder muscles securely fasten and move the upper arm bone in the shoulder socket.
What is a rotator cuff injury?
A rotator cuff injury, often seen as a tear, is considered a common cause of pain and disability, particularly among the adults who partake in strenuous exertion or exercise.
The torn muscles can be significantly exacerbated when someone sleeps purposefully against the damage.
What are the causes of a rotator cuff injury?
There are two leading causes of a rotator cuff injury, and it largely depends on how the damage took place. An “acute” tear is one caused by accidental occurrences. For example, if you were to slip and fall on your shoulder, causing the muscle to tear, that would be an acute tear. However, if the injury comes from constant, repetitive strain on the tissue over time and due to age, this is called a “degenerative” tear.
What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff injury?
Rotator cuff injury symptoms would manifest itself through a variety of factors. They are, but not limited to:
- Pain even while at rest, or in the evenings, especially if lying on the affected shoulder
- Lifting and lowering the arms or other shoulder-specific movements causes pain in the affected area.
- Weakened strength in the shoulder, particularly when lifting or rotating the affected arm
- A crackling sensation when the shoulder gets shifted in certain positions
What is the treatment for a rotator cuff injury?
Chronic pain from a rotator cuff injury can be managed with a rotator cuff injection. This treatment is comprised of local anesthetic and cortisone and is considered effective in reducing pain and improving mobility in the area.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about the rotator cuff injection in Torrance.