Key Highlights:
- The severity of symptoms or their impact on a person’s mobility and function determines whether time off work is necessary and when.
- Orthopedic specialists are the go-to experts for the diagnosis and treatment of rotator cuff injuries.
- Recovery from rotator cuff surgery can take several weeks, so it is best to plan ahead by arranging time off work and preparing for rehabilitation.
When something about your shoulder does not feel right, it is essential to listen to your body to decide whether medical treatment for a rotator cuff injury is necessary and when to take a break from work. Ignoring early warning signs or pushing through pain can worsen the injury, prolong recovery, and increase the likelihood of long-term complications, which can threaten your livelihood and financial stability.
Here are the common signs and symptoms of a rotator cuff injury and how to identify whether rest, treatment, or a combination thereof is the best path forward.
Rotator Cuff Injury: Knowing the Signs and Symptoms
“Rotator cuff injury” is a catch-all term for any damage affecting the group of muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder. Given this, symptoms differ depending on the specific type of rotator cuff injury and its severity. Cleveland Clinic states that not everyone with a rotator cuff injury experiences noticeable symptoms, but shoulder weakness is common among those who do.
Below are the different types of rotator cuff injuries along with their signs and symptoms:
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: The rotator cuff tendon is irritated or inflamed.
- Mild to moderate shoulder pain
- Tenderness around the shoulder
- Shoulder weakness and reduced range of motion
- Partial Tears: Tendon is damaged but somewhat attached to the bone.
- Persistent shoulder pain/dull ache
- Weakness in the arm
- Difficulty performing overhead or lifting tasks
- Full-Thickness Tears: Tendon is completely severed from the bone.
- Intense pain and discomfort
- Severe weakness or inability to lift the arm
- Noticeable loss of range of motion
If you experience the symptoms mentioned above, it is a good idea to see an orthopedic specialist to find out if you need treatment for a rotator cuff injury—even if they seem manageable. Ignoring these issues can cause the injury to worsen over time.
When Do You Take Time Off Work for a Rotator Cuff Injury
The decision of when to take time off work for a rotator cuff injury largely depends on how much the injury is limiting your mobility and daily functioning. If your symptoms prevent you from performing essential tasks, that likely means your rotator cuff injury is quite severe, and that going on medical leave is necessary to prevent further injury.
If your job involves physical labor or repetitive arm movements, even mild symptoms may warrant time off sooner. Ultimately, the key is to monitor how your shoulder feels during both work-related and everyday activities.
How Can You Tell If You Need Treatment for a Rotator Cuff Injury
Consulting an orthopedic specialist is the only way to obtain an accurate diagnosis and receive the appropriate treatment for a rotator cuff injury.
While symptoms can provide clues and help guide your decision as to when to take time off work, you cannot rely on them to determine your specific type of injury and whether you need medical treatment for a rotator cuff injury. That is because each person experiences symptoms differently and, as mentioned, not everyone has noticeable symptoms. The lack thereof does not necessarily eliminate the possibility of injury or the need for medical care.
What Should You Do If Surgery Is the Recommended Treatment for a Rotator Cuff Injury
If rotator cuff surgery becomes necessary, it is important to discuss time off with your manager and make any necessary arrangements at work. Recovering from rotator cuff surgery often requires several weeks away from physically demanding tasks. Coordinating with your superior in advance can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.
Treatment for a Rotator Cuff Injury in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia
At Watauga Orthopaedics, you will be cared for by highly skilled upper-extremity and sports medicine specialists, alongside experienced physical therapists—all of whom are committed to delivering the best possible outcomes for the entire range of shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff injuries. Whether you need evidence-based conservative care or arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, you can trust us to get you back to your livelihood and daily life with strength and confidence.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (423) 282-9011 or use our appointment request form.
