Rotator Cuff Tear

Diagnosing Rotator Cuff Tear

If you’re feeling pain, especially when lifting or rotating your arm, our orthopedic specialists can diagnose the cause of your shoulder pain and offer tailored treatment that meets your needs.

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tear

The symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include:

• A crackling sensation (crepitus) when moving your shoulder
• Dull pain when your shoulder is at rest
• Pain that worsens when you lift or rotate your arm
• Pain that increases when you sleep on the affected shoulder
• Weakness in your shoulder

Diagnosis

We will use different exams and tests to diagnose your torn rotator cuff. These include:

• A physical examination—your doctor will assess your shoulder for pain, range of motion and weakness.
• X-rays—an imaging test that uses electromagnetic radiation with very high frequency and energy to get a picture of your shoulder.
• MRI scans—a diagnostic tool that offers the most sensitive, noninvasive way of imaging the shoulder and other areas of the body.

Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment

Left untreated, a rotator cuff tear will cause increased pain and decreased strength and range of motion in your shoulder. We offer both nonsurgical and surgical treatment for rotator cuff tears.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Nonsurgical treatments for rotator cuff tears include:

• Observation—a period where your doctor monitors your shoulder for worsening symptoms.
• Pain medication—medication to relieve pain, swelling and inflammation associated with a rotator cuff tear.
• Physical therapy—techniques that treat shoulder pain and help you return to your normal activities without pain.

Surgical Treatments

Some partial rotator cuff tears and most full tears require surgery.We will talk with you about the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of rotator cuff surgery.

Along with effective rehabilitation, rotator cuff surgery can help you regain lost function in your shoulder.