Rotator Cuff Degeneration

Symptoms

Rotator cuff degeneration can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

• Pain in the shoulder, especially at night or when lying on the affected shoulder
• Weakness in the arm
• Difficulty lifting the arm overhead
• A grinding or clicking sensation in the shoulder with movement

It’s important to note that not everyone with rotator cuff degeneration will experience all of these symptoms. Some people may only have mild pain or weakness, while others may have more severe symptoms that make it difficult to perform daily activities.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your risk of developing rotator cuff degeneration, including:

• Age: Rotator cuff degeneration is most common in people over 40.
• Repetitive overhead activities: Jobs or hobbies that require you to use your arms overhead for long periods of time can put stress on the rotator cuff tendons.
• Previous shoulder injury: A previous injury to the shoulder, such as a dislocation or fracture, can increase your risk of developing rotator cuff degeneration later in life.
• Arthritis: Arthritis in the shoulder joint can also contribute to rotator cuff degeneration.

Treatment

The treatment for rotator cuff degeneration will depend on the severity of your symptoms. In most cases, non-surgical treatment is recommended. This may include:

• Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate your pain can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Ice therapy: Applying ice to your shoulder for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles around your shoulder joint and improve your range of motion.
• Anti-inflammatory medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a torn rotator cuff tendon. However, surgery is usually only considered if non-surgical treatment has not been effective.