Torn Rotator Cuff: Signs, Symptoms and How to Heal

Torn rotator cuffs are sometimes painful and can have a major impact on your quality of life. Read about the symptoms, causes and treatment options for this common shoulder injury.

A torn rotator cuff is a common shoulder injury that affects more than 2 million people in the U.S. each year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

While rotator cuff tears can't heal on their own, nonsurgical treatments can help boost your shoulder's function and lower pain.

The term rotator cuff refers to the muscles and tendons that connect to keep your arm in its shoulder socket and to help lift and rotate the arm. A torn rotator cuff occurs when there’s a tear in these tendons.

Treatment for a rotator cuff tear may or may not involve surgery, and the treatment chosen is based on the amount of pain and the type and extent of the tear.

Physical therapy often plays a major role in helping someone regain strength and motion from a rotator cuff injury, although it won’t heal a tear.

“The goal of physical therapy in treating a torn rotator cuff with or without surgery is to restore functional shoulder mobility and strength to eliminate pain and return to usual activities,” Marner says.

Physical therapy is commonly used after rotator cuff surgery for as long as three to six months. When searching for a physical therapist, look for someone who’s experienced in treating shoulder injuries and rotator cuff tears. Your surgeon can likely recommend a particular physical therapist for your recovery from surgery that also works with your insurance.

Source: usnews