What Are The Symptoms Of Rotator Cuff Problems?

The most common symptoms of rotator cuff injuries are pain and weakness in the damaged shoulder. Sometimes a person feels pain only when using the shoulder; for example, to reach for an object or to lift something overhead.

If the rotator cuff is torn completely, though, the pain can be constant. A person with a completely torn rotator cuff may not be able to lift the arm from the side of his or her body.

People with rotator cuff injuries often experience pain at night because sleeping in certain positions puts pressure on the shoulder. In some people, the injured shoulder makes popping or clicking sounds when moved. For others, the shoulder seems to stick momentarily.

Need To Know:

Q: Are there any early warning signs of rotator cuff problems?

A: Many people experience weakness, pain, swelling, and/or stiffness in the shoulder long before the rotator cuff actually tears. That's because, while some rotator cuff tears happen suddenly as a result of a fall or injury, most develop gradually, as a result of wear-and-tear on the rotator cuff.

If these early warning signs are heeded, specific steps can be taken to resolve the problem without surgery. That's why it's important to see a doctor if you notice severe pain in the shoulder or are unable to use the joint properly.

Back to Top of Page

<Back Next>

To continue, select a heading below:
What Is The Rotator Cuff? What Are The Symptoms Of Rotator Cuff Problems? How Are Rotator Cuff Problems Diagnosed? How Are Rotator Cuff Problems Treated? Who Should Have Rotator Cuff Surgery? What Is Done In Rotator Cuff Surgery? Recovering After Surgery	Recovering At Home Returning To Normal Life Outlook For The Future Common Questions Putting It All Together Glossary Sources Of Information






	If you have a medical question, visit our Discussion Forum

	Home All Our Topics Contact Us Site Map Back to Top of Page

Thanks for visiting our award winning site.

We strive to make every page helpful to every reader.

Let us know if we've succeeded or how we can improve your experience on our site even more.

We read every email

comments@ehealthMD.com


	Copyright © 2002-2005 Health Information Publications. The information provided on this Web site has been developed exclusively by and for Health Information Publications and ehealthMD and may not be copied without written permission. The information provided is for general information only and is not intended to replace the advice of your health-care provider. This is original material developed by Health Information Publications, Copyright © 1990-2005

	Medical Illustrations Copyright ©Nucleus Medical Art 2004. All rights reserved.

	Last updated October 2004
	Page 2 of 14