As a Lufkin orthopedic urgent care center, we see firsthand how much damage, wear, and tear shoulders can experience. From athletic fields to job sites, shoulders endure an endless combination of motions and strain, often opening the door to injuries and chronic pain.
How Can You Protect Your Shoulders?
While unfortunate accidents can certainly cause damage, many issues arise from warning signals that are ignored. Your body is a complex, smart system, and when it raises a red flag you should definitely tune in and hear what it’s trying to tell you.
“No pain, no gain” may be a popular saying, but it really does not hold water in the medical community.
Causes and Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff injuries are extremely common, especially for athletes. While you may be familiar with the injury by name, most people are not exactly sure of what causes it.
Your rotator cuff is a collection of muscles and tendons in your shoulder that work together to assist with arm motion. Excessive strain and/or repetitive motion can lead to tears, calling for immediate medical attention.
Here are a few signs and symptoms of rotator cuff damage to be aware of:
- A deep, penetrating, persistent ache in your shoulder
- Do you have difficulty reaching up and back, as though you were scratching an itch on the back of your shoulder?
- Weakness in your arm
Do you have a family history of rotator cuff injuries? There is definitely a genetic component to consider as well that may leave you at a greater risk for damage.
