The Significance of Rotator Cuff Thickening

Rotator cuff thickening signifies inflammation within your rotator cuff's soft tissue.

Persistent shoulder pain and a reduced range of movement often accompany rotator cuff thickening and are symptomatic of conditions that require medical attention.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of rotator cuff injury include weakness and restricted range of mobility. Pain is the most prominent symptom. Depending on the severity of the injury, the pain may be intermittent, it may be triggered only by particular motions, or it may be constant.

Conditions

• Tendonitis in the rotator cuff is characterized by inflammation that makes the affected tendons susceptible to tears. Rotator cuff tears can be partial or complete and may require surgery.

Causes

• Repetitive arm motions can lead to inflammation and rotator cuff thickening. Age is a significant factor in rotator cuff injuries, with people over 40 being most susceptible to tears and tendonitis.

Treatment

• Doctors often prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and regular icing of the shoulder for tendonitis patients to reduce swelling of the tendons, along with physical therapy to restore the shoulder's range of motion. Tears may respond to anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy and steroid injections, but severe tears typically require surgery.