Guide To The Causes And Complications Of A Rotator Cuff Tear

Permanent Loss Of Motion

In severe cases, individuals may experience a permanent loss of motion. Most will still be able to move their arms and shoulders to some degree, but their range of motion will be limited. Medical professionals will sometimes recommend undergoing a surgical procedure to repair the rotator cuff, which has the potential to restore the motion of the patient's shoulder joint. If the tendon does not heal properly, there may also be permanent muscle weakness in both the shoulder and arm. Patients may not be able to lift moderate to heavy objects, especially over their head. An untreated shoulder cuff tear can cause the shoulder joint to degenerate slowly. It is important for patients to see a doctor, rest their shoulder, and follow all other treatment guidance.

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is a potential complication of a rotator cuff tear. The tear itself will not cause frozen shoulder. However, if patients immobilize their shoulder for recovery or avoid moving their shoulder because of the pain, the connective tissue may tighten and thicken. This impedes a patient's range of motion and makes their shoulder feel both stiff and painful. In most cases, the signs start gradually and become worse with time. The condition does tend to resolve rather than causing permanent disability. However, it usually takes one to three years to run its course. Frozen shoulder treatment includes physical therapy, numbing medications, and corticosteroids injected into the joint capsule. In rare and severe cases, a doctor may recommend arthroscopic surgery to loosen the patient's shoulder capsule.