ROTATOR CUFF TEAR

The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, allowing us to perform a variety of daily tasks. Whether we’re throwing a ball, lifting a box, or picking up a toddler, we rely on the tendons and muscles for stability and strength—making it important to get proper care at a Red Deer health clinic when issues arise.

The shoulder muscles work together for smooth movement, but an injury or tear in tendons can cause pain and limit motion. A rotator cuff tear, which can be partial, full, or complete, typically results from aging, overuse, or sports injuries.

SYMPTOMS

  • Pain with overhead movements

  • Pain with sleeping on your shoulder or side

  • Limited range of motion, or a pinching sensation

  • Weakness when lifting or gripping objects

  • Pain with raising your arm to the side or behind your back

DIAGNOSIS

We start with a full history and medical exam to assess your function and often use orthopedic tests to diagnose a rotator cuff tear. An ultrasound at Horizon can help detect tears, tendinosis, or bursitis, and additional imaging may be ordered if needed.

TREATMENT

  • Light loading and rehabilitation of the tendons with exercise may reduce pain and improve function.

  • Scapular stabilization exercises.

  • Isometric, concentric and eccentric exercises.

If untreated, these injuries can lead to more pain and reduced function. Other common issues that may occur with a rotator cuff tear include shoulder impingement, tendinosis (thickening of a tendon), and bursitis.