ROTATOR CUFF TEARS
Rotator Cuff
Tear Symptoms
Rotator cuff tears are one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. While some tears cause only mild discomfort, others lead to significant weakness, loss of motion, and difficulty performing everyday activities.
Most Common Complaint
Difficulty Lifting The Arm
Reaching Becomes Difficult
More Treatment Options
The Most Common Symptoms
Although every patient is different, rotator cuff tears often produce a recognizable pattern of symptoms.
Pain Symptoms
- Pain on the outside of the shoulder
- Night pain that interrupts sleep
- Pain reaching overhead
- Pain reaching behind the back
- Pain lifting objects away from the body
- Pain with sports or exercise
Function Symptoms
- Weakness lifting the arm
- Difficulty placing dishes in cabinets
- Trouble putting on a coat
- Difficulty throwing
- Reduced endurance
- Loss of shoulder strength
Does Every Rotator Cuff Tear Hurt?
No. Some people have surprisingly large tears with very little pain, while others have small tears that cause significant discomfort. Pain alone does not determine the size of the tear.
Small Tear
May be very painful.
Large Tear
May cause significant weakness.
Massive Tear
May cause inability to raise the arm.
When Should You See A Shoulder Specialist?
You should seek evaluation if shoulder pain lasts more than several weeks, causes night pain, follows a traumatic injury, or is associated with weakness or loss of function.
Night Pain
Pain that repeatedly wakes you from sleep.
Weakness
Difficulty lifting the arm or carrying objects.
Trauma
Symptoms after a fall or sudden injury.
Persistent Pain
Pain lasting despite rest or therapy.
How Is A Rotator Cuff Tear Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a careful history and physical examination. X-rays evaluate the bones and arthritis, while MRI is often used to assess the size of the tear, tendon quality, muscle condition, and repairability.