Your rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that keep the ball and socket joint of your shoulder in place. Tears in your rotator cuff happen because of injury and overuse.

The main symptom of a torn rotator cuff is pain. If the injury isn't too serious, this may feel like a dull ache in your shoulder that gets worse if you try to lie on the injured side.

You may feel your arm is weaker than usual, which makes it difficult to perform simple movements like reaching behind your back.

If you experience sudden shoulder pain, get medical care at Associated Orthopedists of Detroit PC right away.

Rotator cuff injuries happen most often in patients who do the same motion over and over again.

For example, athletes who have to practice the same movement to perfect their technique are often victims of rotator cuff injuries. Other factors that increase your chances of rotator cuff injury are age and family history.

During your physical exam, a specialist at Associated Orthopedists of Detroit PC examines you by pressing various points on your shoulder and moving it into different positions.

Some patients may also need imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to check for other underlying issues, like arthritis.

Depending on how severe your injury is and whether you have strained your rotator cuff or completely torn it, your Associated Orthopedists of Detroit PC provider may suggest:

Rest

If your injury isn't serious, you may just need rest and to ice the injury.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is a beneficial accompaniment to rest and other home treatments as it can help ensure a complete recovery.

Associated Orthopedists of Detroit PC has a staff of licensed physical therapists, physical therapy assistants, and athletic trainers that help you regain full use of your shoulder.

Injections

For more serious injuries or chronic pain, your doctor may recommend viscosupplementation, stem cell therapy, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.

Surgery

For injuries that aren't responding to noninvasive therapies, your doctor may suggest a minimally invasive arthroscopy surgery, which is used to look at, diagnose, and treat your shoulder joint.

Based on your diagnosis, you may need surgery to repair and reattach your tendon to its original site.

For the treatment of shoulder pain, including rotator cuff tears, call Associated Orthopedists of Detroit PC or use the online scheduling tool to make an appointment today.