Rotator Cuff
Your rotator cuff is a mixture of muscles and tendons that keep your shoulder together. Common causes that can lead to a rotator cuff tear include aging, strenuous jobs on the body (construction, being an athlete, etc.), or family history (some people are more predisposed to tears due to genetics).
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear
- Consistent, severe pain as you move around
- A raking or cracking sound as you move your arm around
- Weakness in affected area
- Reduced arm mobility
How is a Rotator Cuff Tear Detected?
One of the first things your physician will do is to fully physically examine the area. The next step they will take, if further examination is needed to determine if a tear is present, will be to order either an X-ray or Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test. Each of these tests offer a detailed look inside your shoulder that will give your physician a complete picture of how severe the damage is and what needs to be done to treat it.
Treating Labral Tears
Treating Labral Tears often requires a combination of treatments, including:
- Rest and ice: This can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical therapy: A therapist can teach you exercises to improve your range of motion and strengthen the muscles around your hip.
- Corticosteroid injections: These can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Surgery: If other treatments don’t work, you may need surgery to repair or remove the damaged tissue.