Rotator Cuff Injuries
The term “rotator cuff” refers to a group of four small muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint, keeping it secure within its shallow socket while allowing larger muscles to create movement. Strains and injuries to the rotator cuff are the most common source of shoulder pain, accounting for approximately 4.5 million doctor visits each year.
If you are experiencing shoulder discomfort or suspect a rotator cuff injury, contact Hargrave Chiropractic at our Breaux Bridge LA, Lafayette LA, or Youngsville LA locations. Our team is here to help you recover and restore comfortable movement.
Understanding the Shoulder
Rotator cuff injuries are categorized based on the extent of damage and are typically described as partial tears, full-thickness tears, or ruptures. A partial tear occurs when one side of the tendon becomes frayed or damaged. A full-thickness tear, also known as a complete tear, involves a slit or hole through the tendon—similar to slicing lengthwise through a rope. A rupture is the most severe form of injury, in which the tendon is completely torn into two separate pieces.
Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries
Fewer than 10% of rotator cuff tears are caused by a single, sudden injury such as falling, pushing, pulling, throwing, or lifting. Most injuries develop gradually from repetitive strain over time. One of the most common causes of rotator cuff damage is a condition known as impingement. Impingement occurs when the space around the rotator cuff tendon becomes too narrow, causing the tendon to be pinched each time you raise your arm.
People who frequently perform overhead movements are at the greatest risk for impingement and rotator cuff issues. This includes athletes involved in baseball, volleyball, tennis, rowing, swimming, weightlifting, and archery, as well as individuals working in professions such as carpentry, painting, window cleaning, wallpaper hanging, and car washing or waxing. Additional risk factors include smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, and prior cortisone injections.
Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries
Patients who experience an acute rotator cuff injury often describe a sudden “tearing” or “snapping” sensation, followed by sharp pain and noticeable weakness in the shoulder. In contrast, chronic strains typically develop gradually, with symptoms becoming more pronounced as the condition worsens over time.
Pain is usually concentrated in the front or outer part of the shoulder and may radiate down the arm. Symptoms are often aggravated by overhead movements and can progress to the point where lifting the arm becomes difficult. Many patients also report that the pain intensifies at night, particularly when lying on the affected side. It is important to inform your provider if you experience additional symptoms such as significant neck pain, shortness of breath, chest pain, or chest pressure.
Getting Over Rotator Cuff Injuries
In younger patients, a severe tear or rupture may require surgical repair, while most others respond well to conservative treatment such as the care provided in our office. It is important to avoid painful overhead activities and refrain from lifting or carrying heavy objects during recovery.
Try not to sleep on the affected shoulder, especially with your arm positioned overhead. Sleeping on your opposite side with a pillow between your arm and body can help reduce pressure and improve comfort. Smokers are encouraged to pursue a cessation program, as smoking can slow healing, and maintaining a healthy weight through balanced diet and exercise can support faster recovery. Performing your prescribed home exercises consistently is also key to restoring strength and mobility.