A rotator cuff tear is a common shoulder injury that can cause pain and limit your ability to move your arm. This guide will explain what a rotator cuff tear is, the symptoms to watch for, and how physiotherapy can help you recover.

What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround your shoulder joint and keep it stable. These muscles allow you to raise your arm and rotate it in different directions.

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons become damaged. This can happen suddenly from a fall or injury, or it can develop gradually over time from repetitive overhead motions.

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear:

• Shoulder pain, especially at night or when you try to sleep on the affected shoulder
• Weakness in your arm, making it difficult to lift objects or lift your arm overhead
• Difficulty reaching behind your back or combing your hair
• A popping or crackling sensation in your shoulder when you move it
• Limited range of motion in your shoulder joint

How Physiotherapy Can Help:

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis. Physiotherapy can be a safe and effective way to treat a rotator cuff tear and help you get back to the activities you enjoy.

A physiotherapist will assess your shoulder and create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs. Treatment may include:

• Pain Management:** Techniques like ice, heat, or ultrasound to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy Exercises:** Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your shoulder.
• Education:** Learning proper posture and movement techniques to prevent future injury.

Benefits of Physiotherapy:

Physiotherapy can help you:

• Reduce pain and inflammation in your shoulder
• Improve shoulder strength and function
• Regain range of motion in your shoulder joint
• Return to daily activities and sports without limitations

Recovery Timeline:

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear can take weeks or months, depending on the severity of the tear. Most people improve significantly with physiotherapy treatment. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary.

If you have shoulder pain, early intervention with physiotherapy can help you heal faster and prevent further complications.

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