Definition

A rotator cuff injury may be tendinitis, bursitis, or a tear of the muscles and tendons that support the shoulder. Changes and swelling in tissue can also increase pressure in the joint. Raising the arm to shoulder height can pinch tendons and other tissue. It can cause pain called impingement.

A rotator cuff injury can take 2 to 6 months or longer to fully heal.

Rotator Cuff Injury Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

It may be caused by:

• A blow to the shoulder
• Falling on an outstretched arm
• Moving your arms over your head often doing things like swimming, throwing, and tennis
• Wear and tear from problems like arthritis

Risk Factors

This problem is more common in people aged 40 years and older. Other things that may raise your risk are:

• Heavy lifting
• Playing sports where your arms are over your head a lot, such as tennis
• A shoulder that does not look or work as it should

Symptoms

The injury may cause:

• Pain, often when reaching over your head
• Pain that makes it hard to sleep
• Shoulder weakness, especially when lifting the arm
• Popping or clicking sounds when the shoulder is moved
• Problems fully moving the shoulder

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. An exam will be done. The shoulder will be checked.

Images of the shoulder may be done with:

• X-ray
• MRI scan
• Ultrasound

Treatment

The problem is treated based on the level of injury. Options are:

Prevention

To lower the chances of this injury:

• Avoid repetitive overhead motions. Use step stools or ladders to ease strain on shoulders.
• Limit tasks that use:
  • Extreme outward rotation of shoulder
  • Vibrating tools
• Avoid very heavy lifting.
• Exercise often to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint.