6. Detecting a tear
The diagnostic process for rotator cuff tears is quite complex seeing as there are numerous causes and varying symptoms. One person might only suffer from pain while another only suffers from weakness. One of the possible causes of a rotator cuff is age. As you get older, the tendon will degenerate due to wear and tear. This could eventually lead to a torn cuff. Another thing that could cause a tear is a fall or another form of acute injury.
The easiest way to differentiate a rotator cuff from other types of shoulder pain is by determining whether or not the pain is radiating downward on the side of your arm. Another telltale sign is constant pain throughout the night whenever you attempt to sleep on one side of your body. If the tear came through acute injury, you’ll likely feel a snapping sensation followed by sudden weakness.