Rotator Cuff Tear

Rotator cuff tear symptoms can develop gradually over time or appear suddenly after an injury. The severity of symptoms often depends on the size and location of the tear:

• Deep, aching shoulder pain that may worsen at night or when lying on the affected side
• Weakness when lifting or rotating your arm, especially overhead movements
• Pain radiating from the front of your shoulder down the side of your arm
• Crackling or popping sensation when moving your shoulder
• Difficulty reaching behind your back or above your head
• Progressive loss of motion and stiffness in the shoulder joint
• Muscle atrophy or visible weakness in the shoulder muscles over time

Rotator cuff tears can result from acute injuries or degenerative changes over time. Acute tears often occur from falls onto an outstretched arm, lifting heavy objects, or sudden pulling motions. Degenerative tears develop gradually as tendons wear down with age and repetitive use.

Several factors increase your risk of developing a rotator cuff tear:

• Age: Risk increases significantly after age 40, with tears becoming more common in people over 60
• Repetitive overhead activities: Athletes (baseball, tennis, swimming) and workers (painters, carpenters) who frequently raise their arms
• Poor shoulder posture and muscle imbalances
• Previous shoulder injuries or surgeries
• Family history of rotator cuff problems
• Smoking, which can reduce blood flow to tendons and impair healing

At Synergy Health Partners, our orthopedic specialists use a comprehensive approach to diagnose rotator cuff tears. Your evaluation begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, where we assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and specific areas of tenderness.

We perform specialized tests like the drop arm test and empty can test to evaluate the function of different rotator cuff muscles. To confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the tear, we may recommend imaging studies:

• X-rays to rule out bone abnormalities or arthritis
• MRI scans to visualize soft tissue damage and determine the size and location of tears
• Ultrasound for real-time assessment of tendon movement and tears

Our in-house imaging capabilities allow us to provide rapid, accurate diagnoses so you can begin treatment quickly.

You should schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists if you experience:

• Persistent shoulder pain lasting more than a few days, especially pain that worsens at night
• Sudden weakness or inability to lift your arm after an injury
• Significant decrease in your shoulder’s range of motion
• Pain that interferes with daily activities like dressing, reaching, or sleeping
• Symptoms that don’t improve with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain and complete inability to move your shoulder after a fall or injury, as this may indicate a large tear requiring prompt treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further damage and improve your long-term outcomes.