6 signs that you may be dealing with a torn rotator cuff

Have you been noticing shoulder pain when you move your arm in certain ways? Does the pain get worse during activities that require throwing or raising your arms for extended periods of time? Rotator cuff tears are common yet painful injuries that can continue causing pain when left untreated. 

In this article, we’ll discuss six signs that you may have torn your rotator cuff.

What are the signs of a torn rotator cuff?

With a torn rotator cuff, you’ll notice pain and tenderness at the front of your shoulder that may spread down the outside of your arm. You may also experience swelling or a popping or clicking sensation when you move your arm. Along with pain, muscle weakness and a limited range of motion can make it difficult to do certain activities. People often have trouble sleeping with a torn rotator cuff, especially if they usually sleep on the side that’s affected. 

6 signs of a torn rotator cuff

Rotator cuff tears can occur during a traumatic injury, such as a fall on an outstretched hand. More often, they’re overuse injuries that happen to athletes and people who do physical labor. Many people tear their rotator cuff when playing sports that require throwing, like baseball, and during activities that involve raising your arms over your head. Home maintenance projects like hanging drywall or painting can cause rotator cuff tears as well.

The following symptoms are often signs of a torn rotator cuff:

1. Pain, tenderness or swelling on the front of your shoulder or down the outside of your arm
2. Pain that gets worse when you push, pull or lift your arm 
3. A popping or clicking sound when you move your arm
4. Weakness in your arm or a sensation of heaviness
5. Pain that makes it difficult to sleep on one side
6. Limited range of motion in the affected shoulder and arm

A rotator cuff tear can get worse if you continue doing the same level of activity without treatment. However, there are ways to alter your daily tasks so they don’t aggravate your shoulder as much. Your physical therapist is a partner who can help you manage your pain and provide treatments that support your body’s natural healing process. Just a couple of physical therapy treatments can increase your range of motion and reduce pain and stiffness in your shoulder.

At Advent PT, we only provide treatments that support activities in other parts of your life. We focus on strategies to prevent reinjury so you can keep doing the things you love to do. 

Are you ready to see a physical therapist for your torn rotator cuff? We can help. Call us or request an appointment today.