If you are experiencing shoulder pain and weakness, it could be a sign of a rotator cuff tear. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach your shoulder blade to your upper arm bone and help lift and rotate your arm, playing a key role in almost every overhead movement. A tear in the rotator cuff can range from minor damage to a complete tear, depending on the severity of the injury, and often causes difficulty with everyday activities like reaching, lifting, or even sleeping comfortably. If you suspect this type of injury, seeing a chiropractor in Kitchener can help you get a proper assessment and determine the right treatment plan. In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify if you have a rotator cuff tear and what steps you should take next.
Pain and Weakness
The most common symptom of a rotator cuff tear is pain in the shoulder area. You may experience pain when lifting or lowering your arm, reaching behind your back, or sleeping on the affected side. Additionally, you may notice weakness in your arm or difficulty performing everyday tasks such as lifting objects or brushing your hair.
Clicking or Popping Sensation
You may also experience clicking or popping sensations when moving your arm due to the torn tendon rubbing against bone in the shoulder joint. This sensation can be felt when raising or lowering your arm.
Limited Range of Motion
If you have a rotator cuff tear, you may find that you cannot move your arm through its full range of motion without experiencing pain. You may also feel stiffness in your shoulder joint that limits your mobility.
Swelling and Bruising
In some cases, a rotator cuff tear can cause swelling and bruising around the shoulder area. This is usually an indication that there has been significant damage to the muscle tissue.
Seek Professional Help
If you suspect that you have a rotator cuff tear, it is important to seek professional help from either a physiotherapist or chiropractor who specializes in musculoskeletal injuries. They will assess your condition and determine the best course of treatment, which may include physiotherapy, medication, or surgery.
In conclusion, a rotator cuff tear can be a painful and debilitating injury. It is important to recognize the symptoms early on and seek professional help to avoid further damage. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can provide effective treatment options that will help you restore function and mobility in your shoulder joint. Remember to always listen to your body and seek medical attention if you experience any persistent pain or discomfort.
