Shoulder pain is one of the most common orthopedic concerns, and rotator cuff injuries make up a large share of these cases, affecting both athletes and adults who simply reach overhead or sleep on one side.
At Dr. Christopher E. Swanson’s orthopedic clinics patients receive advanced, patient-centered care from a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports-medicine specialist. Dr. Swanson provides expertise in arthroscopic shoulder surgery and regenerative orthobiologic treatments. In more advanced shoulder-replacement cases, he uses Enovis™ technologies, including the ARVIS® Augmented Reality Surgical Guidance System, for enhanced precision and implant alignment.
If your shoulder pain has lingered or your arm feels weak, it’s time to meet with a shoulder specialist near you.
Below, discover five clear signs you may have a rotator cuff tear, and why early diagnosis matters.
1. Persistent Shoulder Pain That Worsens at Night
A dull, aching pain deep in the shoulder is the most common symptom of a rotator cuff tear. The pain often intensifies when you lie on the affected side or lift your arm overhead. The rotator cuff pain location typically centers in the upper arm and may radiate toward the neck or elbow.
Because inflammation can increase at rest, many patients notice that pain worsens at night, disrupting sleep. If shoulder pain is interfering with rest or daily activity, a timely evaluation can prevent the tear from worsening.
2. Weakness or Difficulty Lifting the Arm
When the rotator cuff tendons are damaged, the shoulder loses its ability to stabilize and move efficiently. You might notice weakness when reaching behind your back, lifting even light objects, or raising your arm overhead.
Some individuals experience a “dropping arm” sensation, where the limb feels unsupported or heavy. These are classic rotator cuff tear symptoms that often prompt a rotator cuff injury test or imaging, such as an MRI, to determine whether conservative care or surgery is appropriate.
3. Limited Range of Motion or Stiffness
A torn tendon restricts the shoulder’s ability to move freely. Over time, stiffness develops as the joint compensates for pain and inflammation. Without proper care, this can progress to frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).
Early rotator cuff tear treatment, such as guided physical therapy or orthobiologic injections (PRP or BMAC), can restore flexibility and reduce pain. These biologic therapies, offered at Dr. Swanson’s clinics, use your own cells to promote healing naturally and may help avoid surgery in many cases.
4. Clicking, Popping, or Grinding Sounds
If you hear clicking or grinding when lifting or rotating your arm, it may indicate tendon fraying or a change in the smooth motion of the joint. While occasional noises can be harmless, persistent sounds paired with pain or weakness often signal structural damage.
A shoulder doctor near you can determine whether these noises are caused by inflammation, a partial tear, or another issue requiring further treatment.
5. Shoulder Pain That Doesn’t Improve With Rest
Mild shoulder strains often improve with rest, ice, and time. However, rotator cuff tears typically cause pain that lingers for weeks and may worsen even without physical activity.
Ignoring these symptoms can allow a partial tear to progress into a complete rupture, sometimes requiring rotator cuff tear surgery. Dr. Swanson performs these procedures arthroscopically, using small incisions and a high-definition camera to visualize and repair the torn tendon precisely. This minimally invasive technique promotes quicker recovery, less pain, and smaller scars compared to traditional open surgery.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Rotator cuff tears rarely heal completely on their own. Delayed care can lead to muscle atrophy, tendon retraction, and arthritis. Early assessment allows Dr. Swanson to personalize treatment using both regenerative and minimally invasive techniques, helping you avoid major surgery whenever possible.
How Dr. Swanson Treats Rotator Cuff Tears
Non-Surgical Options
- Physical Therapy: Restores motion, strengthens stabilizing muscles, and improves function.
- Orthobiologic Injections (PRP & BMAC): Regenerative treatments using your own blood or bone marrow to stimulate tissue repair.
- Image-Guided Injections: Deliver medication or biologics directly to the affected area for targeted relief.
Surgical Options
For full-thickness or complex tears, Dr. Swanson performs arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with advanced precision.
In cases requiring joint replacement due to severe degeneration or arthritis, Dr. Swanson uses Enovis™ shoulder systems, including the Foundation® Shoulder System and RSP® Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis, with ARVIS® Augmented Reality Surgical Guidance. This technology enhances alignment, improves implant fit, and ensures a more personalized surgical experience.
When to See a Shoulder Specialist
Consider scheduling an appointment if you experience:
- Shoulder pain lasting more than two weeks or that disturbs sleep
- Weakness or difficulty lifting your arm
- Clicking or grinding sensations in the shoulder
- Discomfort with daily movements, such as reaching or lifting
The sooner a shoulder specialist near me evaluates your symptoms, the more options you’ll have for recovery.
Healing Starts With Expert Shoulder Care
Rotator cuff tears can limit your independence and quality of life, but effective treatment can restore both strength and confidence. Under the care of Dr. Christopher E. Swanson patients receive advanced orthopedic care focused on long-term recovery. Whether you need evaluation, orthobiologic therapy, or arthroscopic shoulder repair, Dr. Swanson’s team delivers precision care tailored to your goals.
Take the first step toward lasting relief. Call (904) 634-0640 or schedule your appointment online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common rotator cuff tear symptoms?
Pain, weakness, stiffness, and clicking are the most frequent signs of a tear.
Where is rotator cuff pain located?
It’s typically felt on the front or outer side of the shoulder and may radiate down the arm.
Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?
Partial tears may improve with rest, therapy, or regenerative injections. Larger tears often need surgical repair.
What is recovery like after rotator cuff tear surgery?
Recovery varies based on tear size and health. Most patients use a sling for a few weeks and progress through guided therapy over several months.
How can I test for a rotator cuff injury at home?
If lifting or rotating your arm causes pain or weakness, it could signal an injury—but only a physician can confirm with proper testing.
