Your shoulder is one of the most flexible joints in your body, but that flexibility comes with a price. The rotator cuff is what gives your shoulder its range of motion, and it’s also a common source of pain when injured.
At OIBortho, our board-certified orthopaedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists are here to help you understand how these injuries happen and how to prevent them. They draw on years of experience treating a wide range of shoulder conditions in patients in Ocean County and Monmouth County, New Jersey.
What the Rotator Cuff Does
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that keep your shoulder joint stable and allow it to move in many directions. It helps you lift, rotate, and reach overhead without the joint slipping out of place.
Because it’s involved in so many motions, it’s also vulnerable to injury.
Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries
Rotator cuff injuries can happen in different ways. Some develop slowly over time, while others occur suddenly. Common causes include:
- Repetitive movements from sports like baseball, tennis, or swimming, or from jobs that require a lot of overhead reaching, such as painting or carpentry.
- Trauma from a fall, lifting something too heavy, or a sudden jerk to the arm.
- Wear and tear with age, which can weaken the tendons and make them more prone to tearing.
- Poor posture or shoulder mechanics, which can increase stress on the tendons over time.
Signs of a Rotator Cuff Injury
The symptoms of a rotator cuff injury can range from mild discomfort to significant pain. Common signs to watch for include:
- Pain in your shoulder when lifting your arm, especially overhead
- Weakness when trying to lift or rotate your arm
- A clicking or popping feeling when you move your shoulder
- Difficulty reaching behind your back or fastening clothing
- Shoulder pain that makes it hard to sleep, especially when lying on the injured side
If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they do not improve with rest, it is important to get your shoulder checked.
Take Care of Your Shoulders
Rotator cuff injuries don’t have to slow you down for good. With the right care, most people can regain strength and motion. Call OIBortho at 732-800-9000 to meet with our shoulder experts in Edison, Red Bank, Freehold, Wall, Brick, Toms River, Lacey, or Manahawkin.