Rotator Cuff Tear: Warning Signs and the Healing Process
A rotator cuff tear is marked by damage to one (or more) of the four tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. Warning signs of a torn rotator cuff are typically felt in the shoulder area. Both partial rotator cuff tears and complete, full-thickness rotator cuff tears (FTRCTs) can make arm movements difficult and cause sharp pain or a dull ache in the shoulder that worsens at night.1
Rotator cuff tears are common.2 They can be caused by everyday wear and tear, a single traumatic blow, or develop gradually over time due to repetitive overhead motions. Age increases risk.3 Nonsurgical treatments can aid in healing rotator cuff injuries. Serious tears may require rotator cuff surgery. Depending on severity, the healing process can take several weeks or months.4