What are the warning signs of a rotator cuff injury?

Hands examining a person's shoulder
Person holding their shoulder with a rotator cuff injury

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that hold the shoulder joint in place and allow you to move your arm and shoulder. Rotator cuff injuries are common, especially in athletes and people who engage in repetitive overhead activities. There are a number of warning signs that may indicate a rotator cuff injury. These include:

  • Pain: Pain is the most common symptom of a rotator cuff injury. The pain may be located in the front, side, or back of the shoulder. It may be constant or intermittent, and it may worsen with certain activities, such as reaching overhead, lifting objects, or throwing a ball.
  • Weakness: Weakness in the shoulder is another common symptom of a rotator cuff injury. This may make it difficult to lift objects, reach overhead, or rotate your arm.
  • Limited range of motion: A rotator cuff injury may also limit your range of motion in the shoulder. This may make it difficult to raise your arm above your head, reach behind your back, or comb your hair.
  • Clicking or popping sounds: Some people with rotator cuff injuries may experience clicking or popping sounds when they move their shoulder. This is caused by the tendons rubbing against the bones in the shoulder joint.

If you experience any of these warning signs, it is important to see a doctor or physical therapist for a diagnosis. Getting seen early can help to keep the injury from worsening and improve your chances of a full recovery.

When to see a doctor

You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Severe pain or weakness in the shoulder
  • Limited range of motion in the shoulder
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the shoulder
  • Pain that worsens at night or when you are resting your arm
  • Pain that does not improve with over-the-counter pain relievers

Your doctor will perform a physical examination and ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to get a better look at your shoulder joint.

Care for rotator cuff injuries

Care for rotator cuff injuries depends on the severity of the injury. Mild injuries are often managed with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may also be helpful.

More severe injuries may require physical therapy or surgery. Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint and improve your range of motion. Surgery may be necessary to repair a torn rotator cuff tendon.

Lowering your risk of rotator cuff injuries

There are a number of things you can do to help lower your risk of rotator cuff injuries, including:

  • Warming up before engaging in any physical activity
  • Strengthening the muscles around the shoulder joint
  • Avoiding repetitive overhead activities
  • Using proper lifting techniques
  • Maintaining a healthy weight

If you have any concerns about your risk of a rotator cuff injury, talk to your doctor or physical therapist.

How Flexcin Supports Everyday Shoulder Comfort

Joint supplements: may help support joint mobility, support a healthy inflammatory response, support cartilage and joint structure, and support the body's own lubricating fluids in the joint — all of which contribute to everyday shoulder comfort.

With ingredients like cetyl myristoleate (CM8) alongside familiar joint-care ingredients such as glucosamine, MSM, bromelain, and collagen, Flexcin is formulated to support mobility, a healthy inflammatory response, and long-term joint health. Flexcin also offers Motion Lotion, a topical cream made to support everyday joint comfort.

At Flexcin we have been making all-natural joint care supplements since the year 2000, and thousands of people have made them part of their daily joint care routine. We provide US-made supplements with ingredients chosen to support a healthy inflammatory response and to support cartilage and joint structure. And, we offer them with a no-risk 90-day trial. If you try Flexcin and are unsatisfied with the results after taking it for three months, simply return the empty bottles for a full refund less shipping and handling.

Flexcin joint care supplements

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results vary. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement.