Rotator Cuff Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Managing A Rotator Cuff Injury

Rotator cuff injuries are among the most common shoulder problems treated by orthopedic specialists. Whether you're an athlete, a weekend warrior, or dealing with daily repetitive tasks, a rotator cuff tear can significantly limit your movement and cause persistent pain. At Savino Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating rotator cuff injuries so you can regain strength and shoulder function.

What Is a Rotator Cuff Injury?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for lifting and rotation of the arm. Injuries often occur when one or more of these tendons is torn or inflamed due to overuse, trauma, or degenerative changes.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

• Overuse and Repetitive Motion: Sports that involve overhead movements like tennis or baseball, or jobs that require frequent lifting.

• Acute Trauma: Falling on an outstretched arm, a sudden heavy lift, or an accident can tear the tendon.

• Age-Related Degeneration: As we age, rotator cuff tendons can wear down, making them more prone to injury or partial tears.

  
  

Symptoms to Watch For

If you're dealing with a rotator cuff injury, you may experience:

• Persistent shoulder pain, especially when lifting your arm or reaching overhead

• Weakness in the shoulder, making actions like combing hair difficult

• A clicking or popping sensation when moving the shoulder

• Pain that worsens at night, especially when lying on the affected side

• Limited range of motion or difficulty raising the arm

  
  

Diagnosing a Rotator Cuff Tear

At Savino Orthopedics, diagnosing a rotator cuff injury usually involves:

1. Medical History & Physical Exam – We’ll ask about your symptoms, any past injuries, and how the pain started.

2. Imaging Tests – X-rays can rule out bone problems, while an MRI or ultrasound can show soft-tissue issues like tendon tears.

3. Strength and Movement Testing – We assess your shoulder’s strength and flexibility to determine which tendon is affected.

   
   

Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Injuries

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises designed to improve the function of rotator cuff muscles.

• Rest & Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that worsen the pain.

• Anti-inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs can help reduce pain and inflammation.

• Steroid Injections: Cortisone injections may ease pain in more severe cases.

  
  

Surgical Treatments

If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, rotator cuff surgery may be required:

• Arthroscopic Repair: Minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera to reattach the torn tendon.

• Open Repair: A larger incision may be necessary for complex or large tears.

• Tendon Transfer or Graft: In cases where the tendon is severely damaged, other tendons may be used to restore shoulder function.

Following surgery, a structured rehabilitation program helps restore strength and flexibility, typically under the supervision of a physical therapist.

Why Choose Savino Orthopedics for Rotator Cuff Care

At Savino Orthopedics, our team combines deep expertise in sports medicine with a patient-centered approach. We create personalized treatment plans based on your age, health, lifestyle, and goals. As a leading orthopedic practice on Long Island, we strive to help you recover safely, reduce pain, and return to full function.

When to See a Doctor

If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain, weakness, or limited mobility, it’s important not to ignore it. Early diagnosis and treatment of a rotator cuff injury can prevent worsening, reduce the risk of chronic damage, and improve long-term outcomes.

Contact Savino Orthopedics today to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options for rotator cuff injuries.