Shoulder pain can make simple everyday tasks like lifting your arm, reaching overhead, dressing or sleeping uncomfortable. One of the most common causes of chronic shoulder pain is a rotator cuff problem. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons which stabilize the shoulder joint and allow the arm to move smoothly.
If you have persistent shoulder pain, weakness or limited movement, it’s important to identify the cause rather than ignore the symptoms.
What Is a Rotator Cuff Problem?
Rotator cuff problems may be inflammation of the tendon, tendinitis, a partial tear or a complete tear of the tendon. These conditions may develop gradually due to repetitive shoulder movements or age-related changes, or they may develop suddenly from a fall or injury from lifting.
Those who frequently do overhead activities, participate in sports, or do heavy work may be at higher risk for rotator cuff problems.
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Problem
- Pain when you raise your arm
The most common symptom is pain when raising the arm, especially above shoulder height. You might feel discomfort when you are reaching for something on a high shelf or when you are putting on clothes.
- At Nite Pain in the Shoulder
Rotator cuff pain may be worse at nite, particularly when sleeping on the shoulder on which the pain occurs. Nite pain may disrupt sleep and daily activities of chronic pain.
- Weakness of shoulder or arm
You may find it difficult to lift, carry or move things that used to be easy. Weakness may be more apparent in overhead movements.
- Problems with Daily Activities
You may find it uncomfortable or difficult to do things such as: comb your hair reach behind your back wear a shirt fasten clothing
- Clicking or Popping With Pain
Some experience a clicking, popping or catching sensation in the shoulder. If these symptoms are associated with pain or weakness then an orthopedic consultation may be appropriate.
What causes problems with the rotator cuff?
They are common causes:
Repetitive overhead motions
Sports injuries
Falling directly on the shoulder
Lifting something incorrectly or all of a sudden
Tendon degeneration during aging
History of shoulder injuries
Not all shoulder pain is due to a rotator cuff problem. They can mimic each other in conditions like frozen shoulder, shoulder impingement, arthritis, and tendonitis.
When to see an orthopedic doctor?
If your shoulder pain is not getting better, is getting worse, is affecting your sleep, or is causing significant weakness or loss of motion, you might want to consider seeing an orthopedic specialist. Prompt evaluation is also indicated for sudden, severe pain following an injury.
An orthopedic doctor can look at your symptoms, test shoulder movement and strength and recommend relevant investigations if needed.
How do you treat rotator cuff problems?
Treatment varies according to the severity and cause of the problem. Treatment may include activity modification, medications, physiotherapy, exercises, or other orthopedic treatments, depending on the diagnosis. Major tears or persistent problems may require evaluation by a surgeon.
Getting evaluated early can help to identify the right way to treat and avoid prolonged discomfort.
Shoulder Pain Consult with Dr. Sanjay Rawat
If you have shoulder pain that doesn’t go away, weakness or trouble moving your arm, Dr. Sanjay Rawat is an experienced orthopedic in Indore who can assess your condition and help you come up with the right treatment plan.
If you’re searching for a shoulder pain specialist in Indore or an orthopedic doctor in Indore, a professional evaluation can help determine whether the symptoms are caused by a rotator cuff problem or another shoulder condition.
Shoulder Pain Treatment in Indore Consult with Dr. Sanjay Rawat for Shoulder Pain, Get your Shoulder Pain Assessed, and Know the Right Treatment Options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a rotator cuff problem cause shoulder pain at night?
Yes. Rotator cuff-related shoulder pain can become more noticeable at night, particularly when lying on the affected shoulder.
How do I know if my shoulder pain is a rotator cuff problem?
Pain during arm movement, weakness, nighttime discomfort, and difficulty with overhead activities can be signs. However, other shoulder conditions can cause similar symptoms, so diagnosis by an orthopedic specialist is recommended.
What exercises are good for rotator cuff problems?
Exercises should be selected according to the underlying condition and severity. A physiotherapist or orthopedic specialist can recommend appropriate exercises after evaluation.
