Information on Rotator Cuff Tears

A rotator cuff tear is when a tear occurs in the tendons that support the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff is the structure that holds the shoulder joint in place through muscles and tendons. They occur mostly in patients over 40 years old.

Symptoms

• Pain in the outer front part of your shoulder is the most common symptom associated with rotator cuff tears. The pain may be made worse by lifting your arm over your head or reaching out in front of you. The affected arm may feel weaker than usual, and you may also feel and hear a clicking sensation when you move the arm into certain positions.

Treatment

• Treatment depends on the severity of the tear, which can be identified by your physician. Painkillers such as paracetamol, iboprufen, diclofenac and naproxen may be given. Your doctor may advise you to ice the shoulder at regular intervals to bring down any swelling. For minor tears, you may be referred to a physiotherapist, who will show you various shoulder exercises to help with mobility and assist your recovery. The last resort for severe tears is surgery to physically repair the damage to the tear.

Considerations

• Be careful with painkillers, as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as iboprufen, naproxen and diclofenac can cause side effects including nausea and in some cases internal bleeding into the stomach. Other side effects include a worsening of the symptoms of asthma and high blood pressure, according to Patient UK. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Always read and follow the instructions on the label of any medications you are taking. If in doubt, seek medical advice.