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Rotator Cuff Injury

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Definition & SymptomsCauses & Risk FactorsTests & DiagnosticsTreatmentsAlternative TherapiesComplicationsPrevention

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Definition

A rotator cuff injury is a tear or inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons in the shoulder.

Symptoms

Some areas of the rotator cuff tendons have poor blood supply. Thus, the tissue is very slow to heal and maintain itself during normal use. Tearing and inflammation in athletes is usually due to hard and repetitive use, especially in baseball pitchers. In non-athletes over age 40, the injuries usually occur as a result of lifting heavy objects. The two primary symptoms are pain and weakness in the shoulder or arm, especially with arm movement or at night. A partial tear may cause pain but still allow normal arm movement. A complete tear usually leaves the injured person unable to raise the arm away from the side.

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