Rotator Cuff Tear
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder that help to hold the upper arm bone (humerus) in the shoulder socket. It also helps to rotate and lift the arm.
A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these muscles or tendons become damaged or torn. This can happen due to a sudden injury, such as a fall or lifting a heavy object, or due to repetitive motion over time, such as from playing sports or performing manual labor.
Symptoms of a rotator cuff tear can include pain in the shoulder that may radiate down the arm, weakness in the arm, difficulty lifting the arm, and a popping or cracking sensation when moving the arm. Some people may also experience shoulder stiffness or a limited range of motion.
Treatment for a rotator cuff tear can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Mild tears may become painless on their own with rest, ice, and physical therapy, while more severe tears may require surgery to repair the damaged muscles or tendons.
