The shoulder is remarkable in its flexibility, but that same range of motion increases the risk for issues like rotator cuff tears or impingement. Though they can feel similar, each has distinct causes and treatment methods.
What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles (and their tendons) that stabilize your shoulder and assist in lifting or rotating your arm. A rotator cuff tearinvolves partial or complete damage to these tendons, often from repetitive overhead motions, trauma, or age-related wear.
Understanding Shoulder Impingement
Impingement occurs when rotator cuff tendons get squeezed or inflamed beneath the acromion. This narrowing of the subacromial space can cause pain and limit movement—especially during overhead arm lifts.
Key Differences
- Structural vs. Inflammatory:
A cuff tear is a physical disruption of tendon fibers. Impingement focuses on tendon inflammation or pinching. - Pain Location & Severity:
Both cause shoulder pain, but a severe tear often leads to notable weakness, whereas impingement pain is sharper with overhead motion. - Treatment Path:
Small cuff tears or mild impingement respond to therapy and injections. Larger tears may require arthroscopic repair.
Causes & Risk Factors
Repetitive Overhead Activities: Sports (swimming, baseball) can strain these tendons.
Trauma: Sudden lifting injuries or falls sometimes cause acute tears.
Degeneration: Tendons lose elasticity over time, making them prone to tears or irritation.
Treatment Options
- Conservative: Rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory meds, or physiotherapy to strengthen the shoulder.
- Injections: Corticosteroids can relieve inflammation in mild cases.
- Arthroscopic Surgery: For persistent tears or impingement, consider our Shoulder Arthroscopy approach.
- Modern Techniques: Less invasive procedures, improved tendon reattachment, and faster rehab protocols.
Speeding Recovery
Early diagnosis makes a difference. Arthroscopy coupled with targeted rehab can restore mobility more quickly compared to older open-surgery methods. We tailor rehab plans to each patient to prevent re-injury and maximize healing.