10 Torn Rotator Cuff Symptoms

By james

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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At the top of our arms where they meet with our shoulders is a group of muscles and tendons known collectively as the rotator cuff. These help to strengthen the joint and give us the power and flexibility that we need. The muscles are prone to tearing, however, in what is known as a torn rotator cuff.

Such injuries are most common among sporting people, but they can happen to just about anybody. They can be painful as well as causing other symptoms.

Depending on the severity of the tear, it will heal naturally over time. However, severe tears may require the need for surgery. This article looks at 10 torn rotator cuff symptoms.

Symptom #1: Pain When Reaching Overhead

Our long arms have been very useful to us as we have evolved. They have helped us to climb when needed and grasp for fruits or other food. As modern humans, our long arms help us to reach out to things around us that are useful to us. They also help us to reach up high above us, but this is not always easy.

One symptom of a rotator cuff problem is that the patient can feel some discomfort when reaching overhead. They don’t necessarily have to be holding anything heavy, just the act of reaching itself can be enough to cause pain.