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Rotator Cuff Tendinitis and Tears |
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Did you know... 80% to 95% of all patients with Rotator Cuff patients achieve satisfactory recovery.
Causes
Rotator cuff tendinitis and rotator cuff tears are caused by inflammation and degeneration of the tendons which surround the shoulder joint. These are frequently the result of repetitive overuse of the shoulder.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms are pain over the outside of the arm and sometimes can radiate down to the hand. Often times patients cannot sleep on the affected shoulder.
Other symptoms include:
- Recurrent, constant pain, particularly with overhead activities
- Pain at night that prevents you from sleeping on the affected side
- Muscle weakness, especially when attempting to lift the arm
- Catching and grating or cracking sounds when the arm is moved
- Limited motion
Treatments
Initial treatment includes ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications if medically indicated. Cortisone shots are often effective at relieving the acute inflammation and pain. If conservative measures fail, a physician may order an MRI, which can help determine whether or not a tear is present. If the pain persists and is severely affecting the patient's lifestyle, surgery may be necessary to bring the shoulder back to health.
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