The shoulder joint is an intricate and highly mobile part of the body, making it susceptible to a variety of injuries. Among them, rotator cuff tears are quite common, affecting nearly 2 million Americans each year—especially athletes and individuals engaged in activities that entail repetitive overhead movements.

As a Clinical Kinesiologist and sports medicine physician in the Chattanooga, North Georgia area, Dr. Jeff Hall has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating rotator cuff tears among other shoulder related issues.

What is a rotator cuff tear?

A rotator cuff tear is an injury that occurs when one or more of the tendons that make up the rotator cuff become partially or completely torn. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and enabling a wide range of motion. 

You can read more about shoulder pain and injuries we treat here.

There are a number of potential signs you may have torn a rotator cuff:

Pain and weakness

One of the primary indicators of a rotator cuff tear is persistent pain in the shoulder, especially when lifting or rotating the arm. This pain is often accompanied by weakness or a feeling of instability in the shoulder joint, which can make everyday tasks more challenging. Many people with rotator cuff tears experience pain at night, particularly when lying on the affected shoulder. This nighttime pain can disrupt sleep and make it challenging to find a comfortable sleeping position

Limited range of motion

Another common sign of a rotator cuff injury is difficulty raising your arm above your head or reaching behind your back. This limited range of motion can significantly impact your ability to perform daily activities, sports, or work-related tasks.

Popping or clicking sounds

If you hear a popping or clicking sound when you move your shoulder, it could be a sign of a torn rotator cuff. This noise might be accompanied by a sensation of grinding or catching within the joint, indicating possible damage to the tendons.

Depending on the severity and type of shoulder pain you are experiencing, Dr. Hall may recommend one or a combination of non-surgical treatment options. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back from the activities you enjoy. Timely diagnosis and expert care are crucial for overcoming a rotator cuff tear or other shoulder injury and regaining your shoulder’s strength and functionality.

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