Rotator Cuff Tear vs Impingement: Identifying and Treating Shoulder Pain

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Rotator Cuff Tear:

• Sharp pain, especially at night
• Significant shoulder weakness
• Difficulty lifting the arm or performing specific movements
• Clicking or popping sounds during shoulder movement

Shoulder Impingement:

• Pain during overhead movements
• Weakness in the shoulder
• Stiffness and limited range of motion
• Tenderness in the shoulder area

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Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Persistent Pain: Pain that does not improve with rest or home treatments.
• Severe Symptoms: Intense pain, significant weakness, or loss of shoulder function.
• Associated Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, or deformity in the shoulder.

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Rotator Cuff Tear:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises and stretching to aid recovery.
• Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
• Surgery: Surgical repair of the torn tendon may be required for significant tears.

Shoulder Impingement:

• Rest and Ice: Reducing activity and applying ice can help reduce inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve shoulder strength and flexibility.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain.
• Injections: Steroid injections for severe inflammation.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical decompression may be necessary.

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Recovery times vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. Rotator cuff tear recovery may take several months and often involves a comprehensive rehabilitation program, while shoulder impingement recovery can range from a few weeks to several months.

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Identifying whether shoulder pain is due to a rotator cuff tear or shoulder impingement is crucial for effective management and treatment. If you experience persistent or severe shoulder pain, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

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