Rotator Cuff Pain

The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their tendons in the shoulder. They are essential for maintaining shoulder joint stability as well as enabling extensive movement.

Rotator cuff pain describes discomfort or inflammation affecting the muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. It can occur due to an acute injury, such as a fall or dislocation of the shoulder, or because of age-related tendon degeneration. Individuals over 40 are mostly affected, as age-related wear and tear can reduce tendon flexibility. This makes it more susceptible to injury.

Symptoms

• Pain or tenderness: Normally experienced in the front or outer part of the shoulder, particularly during overhead movements or while lifting objects.
• Weakness: Having trouble with shoulder motions like lifting or rotating the arm.
• Restricted range of motion: Difficulty in moving the shoulder freely, particularly with overhead movements.
• Nighttime pain: Often worsens when lying on the affected shoulder and disrupts sleep.

Causes and Risk Factors

Rotator cuff pain and injuries can result from a variety of factors, including:

• Gradual wear and tear: Most injuries develop over time, especially as the shoulder joint experiences strain and wear with age. Aging also reduces the tendons’ capacity to repair themselves.
• Repetitive overhead movements: Activities like painting, weightlifting, throwing, or swimming (front crawl) can increase the risk of rotator cuff injury.
• Acute injuries: Sudden trauma, such as a fall or accident, can lead to a rotator cuff tear.

Diagnosis

The orthopaedic specialists at The Joint Pain Clinic provide comprehensive assessments of shoulder conditions, taking into account how your symptoms impact your daily life. Using advanced imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds, they will gather detailed insights about your rotator cuff. This allows them to make an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment

Most rotator cuff problems can be effectively treated without surgery, restoring good function and mobility. Resting and refraining from heavy lifting or overhead movements are essential steps. Anti-inflammatory medicines, steroid injections and specialized physiotherapy can also help rebuild strength and improve mobility.

For major injuries, or when non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief, the consultant orthopedic surgeons at The Joint Pain Clinic may recommend surgical repair. This procedure, done under general anesthesia, can be performed using minimally invasive techniques or a mini-open operation. Your provider will determine the most suitable approach after a thorough assessment of your shoulder.

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