How to Repair a Rotator Cuff Tear

If you've recently experienced a sharp pain in your shoulder while playing tennis or lifting weights, a rotator cuff injury or tear could be the culprit. Other symptoms of rotator cuff injuries are weakness and stiffness in your shoulder. Many minor rotator cuff injuries can be taken care of with home remedies such as rest, ice, pain relievers and gentle exercises. If you experience severe pain or pain that does not improve within a few days, call your doctor for advice.

Instructions

• 1

  Rest your shoulder according to your doctor's guidelines. Limit the use of your shoulder and avoid performing repetitive movements or movements that cause pain, especially lifting heavy objects. Rest the shoulder for a few days up to several weeks, according to your doctor's recommendation. Using your shoulder too soon can cause prolonged injury.

• 2

  Apply ice to your shoulder for the first two days after injury. Place an ice pack, bag of frozen vegetables or towel filled with ice cubes on your shoulder for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours. Apply ice to your shoulder for one to two days after the injury; avoid using heat during this time.

• 3

  Apply moist heat to your shoulder two to three days after the injury or once the pain and inflammation have subsided. Submerge a towel in hot water, wring it out and fold it into an 8-inch square. Place the towel on the affected shoulder, lean forward so that your arm hangs loosely in front of you and swing your arm gently forward and backward. Perform this exercise two to three times each day to reduce stiffness and restore your range of motion.

• 4

  Take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever according to the directions. Take ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen sodium in accordance with the product's directions to relieve pain and swelling, says the Mayo Clinic.

• 5

  Gently stretch the area three to five times a day. Place your opposite hand on the arm of the affected shoulder and pull the injured arm across your body. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, rest and repeat. Grab the back of a chair with both arms and lean forward with your arms straight. Bend at the waist and lean forward to stretch your shoulders. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, rest and repeat.

• 6

  Talk to your doctor if your condition does not improve. Ask your doctor to recommend appropriate stretching and strengthening exercises or physical therapy to help your rotator cuff heal.