Key takeaways:
- Rotator cuff tears, impingement, and tendinitis are related shoulder issues that progress from mild to severe symptoms.
- Pain during specific activities, especially with arm movement, is a common symptom for all three conditions.
- Seeking professional help early on and performing appropriate exercises can aid in faster recovery and prevent surgery.
Common Symptoms of Shoulder Problems
- Pain when reaching up or behind the back
- Pain when extending the arm, specifically while holding something heavy
- Pain while sleeping on the affected shoulder
- Rotator cuff tears can cause pain even at rest and loss of motion
The Spectrum of Shoulder Pain
Shoulder Impingement
- Occurs when the space between the ball and socket narrows, causing pinching of tendons
- Common symptoms include neck pain, upper trap muscle tightness, and difficulty with certain arm movements
- If unaddressed, can lead to tendinitis or rotator cuff tear
Shoulder Tendinitis
- Characterized by tenderness and discomfort in a specific spot on the shoulder
- Can result from overused or over-compressed tendons in the ball and socket joint
- If left untreated, may progress to rotator cuff tears
Rotator Cuff Tear (RTC)
- Typically leads to loss of motion, making daily tasks difficult
- Persistent irritation of the tendon eventually causes it to tear and break open
- Even with a severe RTC, there is an excellent chance of healing naturally without surgery through physical therapy
Recommended Videos
- For rotator cuff tear exercises: How to Treat a Rotator Cff Tear at Home
- For shoulder and neck exercises, stretches, and tips: Our Shoulder and Neck Playlist
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