Rotator cuff injuries are among the most common causes of shoulder pain, accounting for more than 2 million doctor visits each year in the United States.
At Dr. Neil Singh's practice, we provide specialized care in upper extremity conditions, helping patients in New Castle and surrounding areas get lasting relief from shoulder pain and mobility issues. If you’ve been living with discomfort that hasn’t improved, we’re here to evaluate your symptoms, provide a clear diagnosis, and guide you through your options for treatment. Schedule your consultation today to take the first step toward healing.
Below, we’ll walk through five warning signs of a possible rotator cuff tear and explain when it’s time to see a shoulder specialist.
Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears
Your rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and keep the upper arm bone securely in place. These tissues enable essential shoulder motions, including lifting, reaching, and rotating the arm. When injured, the tendons can become inflamed or torn, resulting in pain, weakness, and reduced mobility.
A cuff tear can be caused by:
- Repetitive overhead activities, such as lifting, throwing, or painting
- Age-related tendon degeneration (commonly affecting the supraspinatus tendon)
- Sudden trauma, like falling on an outstretched arm or lifting a heavy object
- Chronic overuse in athletes or individuals in physically demanding jobs
- Shoulder instability or postural issues
Understanding the source of your shoulder pain is the first step toward accurate shoulder pain diagnosis and treatment.
1. Persistent Pain That Interferes with Daily Activities
One of the most common rotator cuff tear symptoms is lingering shoulder pain, especially when reaching overhead, behind your back, or lying on the affected side at night. This discomfort may be dull and constant or sharp and sudden, depending on the extent of the tear.
Pain often worsens with activity and may persist at rest as the rotator cuff pathology progresses.
2. Shoulder Weakness or Arm Fatigue
If you’ve noticed arm weakness when performing everyday tasks—like lifting a gallon of milk, brushing your hair, or pushing open a door—it could be a sign of a torn rotator cuff. Patients often describe pain and arm weakness as worsening over time.
This occurs when the torn tendon prevents the rotator cuff muscles from properly stabilizing and moving the arm, leading to muscle fatigue and reduced function.
3. Limited Range of Motion
Difficulty lifting your arm overhead, reaching across your body, or rotating your shoulder may indicate a cuff tear. A torn or inflamed tendon can restrict the smooth movement of the shoulder joint, leading to stiffness and reduced mobility.
Some patients feel as though their arm is “catching” during certain motions—this mechanical issue should always be evaluated.
4. Clicking or Popping Sounds
While occasional cracking can be harmless, repetitive clicking, popping, or grinding—especially when combined with pain—is a red flag. These noises may be caused by tendon irritation or mechanical catching within the shoulder joint.
This is especially concerning if it’s accompanied by limited motion or shoulder pain with movement.
5. Symptoms Following a Fall or Injury
If your shoulder pain started after a fall, sudden force, or lifting injury, there may be a complete or partial cuff tear. Acute injuries can cause tendon tears that affect your ability to move the arm normally.
A sudden injury resulting in swelling, bruising, or severe weakness should be examined promptly to prevent complications and guide early rotator cuff tear treatment.
When to See a Specialist
You should schedule a visit with Dr. Neil Singh's practice if:
- Shoulder pain that lasts more than a week with no improvement
- You notice increasing weakness or reduced arm function
- You experienced a recent injury involving the shoulder
- Conservative care (rest, ice, activity modification) hasn’t helped
Getting a rotator cuff tear diagnosed early helps avoid further damage and supports better recovery. Our team offers imaging, physical evaluation, and a clear treatment roadmap for your shoulder condition.
Treatment for Rotator Cuff Injuries
At Dr. Neil Singh’s practice, we tailor every treatment plan to your specific goals, anatomy, and lifestyle. Depending on the severity of the tear and your activity level, your care may include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding shoulder muscles and improve flexibility
- Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation
- Activity modification to prevent further strain on the rotator cuff
- Minimally invasive rotator cuff repair surgery for larger or full-thickness tears that don’t respond to conservative care
Dr. Singh uses advanced arthroscopic techniques to repair the shoulder with greater precision and less downtime. Our comprehensive approach ensures you receive expert care through every stage of healing.
Expert Shoulder Care Starts Here
If you’re living with symptoms of a rotator cuff tear, early diagnosis and personalized care can make a lasting difference. Dr. Neil Singh specializes in identifying and treating rotator cuff problems with minimally invasive, patient-first solutions.
Request an appointment or call us at 724-656-0086 to begin your recovery with New Castle’s top upper extremity specialist.
