Rotator Cuff Tear: Everything You Need To Know [FULL 2024 GUIDE]

[@yesithinkiam]

You give the calmest, best organized, and most thorough explanations available for physical therapy issues. You provide genuine public service. Thank you.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Yes I Think I Can! Thank you very much, we appreciate your support! 🧡🙌 Yes We Can! 🌟

[@bencotton544]

Never get surgery I used the pulleys on the door and after 3 months I almost have full range of motion.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Ben, excellent point! Surgery should be the absolute last option. We are thrilled to hear that the pulley exercises you performed for 3 months have helped you recover. It's all about consistency and addressing the root cause which in most cases is a muscle imbalance. Keep up the great work! 🎉

[@TheUmbowa]

Full width tears?

[@jaznjen9876]

I had JUST posted on another one of your videos when I got the notification for this one. I posted that a nurse took my blood pressure at an appointment to have my shoulder checked when she agitated something on the arm I had injured. According to this video, she may have hit that radial nerve. That's the exact place I've had problems since that day.

[@favoritsvarmor]

I am so glad, I 've found you. It is so good advise, to help yourself, and stay away from the knife😊

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey @favoritsvarmor, we are glad you found us! Stay safe and healthy!

[@laurae3187]

You are amazing Dr. David Middaugh…You came into my life as I was researching an MRI, I have to wonder why after a week of researching the internet for Full Thickness Rotator Cuff Tear…I never came across your philosophy. No surgery for Me. I am doing quite well, trying to keep up with the exercises. Shrug, Shrug…..Thanks again……

[@ShirleyChang-d9h]

I’m so glad finally someone fully explained the anatomy and what a rotator cuff tear involves!! Dr never explains any of this!! Thank you!!

[@outdoorsman1140]

Thanks, exellent video. It would be great to see a variant for post-trauma injuries.

[@blt3479]

This is an Excellent and very thorough explanation of what's actually going on, and how to begin to fix the problem. Thanks so much for posting this!! So helpful...

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Blt, you're welcome! Thanks for the kind words.🙌 Just in case you're interested we have a rotator cuff help playlist. You can check it out here: "Sciatica Pain Exercises and Stretches" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1maZPQPPtirn4oxj8oCPuIMR We'd love to hear how you are doing as you progress.🌟 Please take care!

[@AnnaG121]

I could relate to every single comment you made. Reg doc visit, x-rays, going through 12 sessions of PT doing all the exercises you recommended NOT doing, and then an MRI. Pain has worsened over the last 4 months. Will meet with surgeon to discuss MRI results in 3 days. Thank you for educating me better than anyone has thus far!

[@karenpetersensainas6889]

End February 2024 I experienced a full tear. Today my ultrasound confirmed this. I started your program immediately end February plus yoga therapy, physiotherapy and PRP. I’m doing great!! Thank you.

[@sanjaykhujneri6596]

Can you please share the physiotherapt & yoga excercises you practiced. Regards,Sanjay

[@powell4661]

What I thought was whiplash because i had pain and was unable to turn my head to the right was recognized by my physical therapist to be rotor cuff damage and nerve damage in mid back. Two therapists working on my shoulder for an hour had my neck mobile again. They say they can fix without surgery. I have been going twice a week for 2 or 1 hour sessions for 6 week. Nearly have full mobility in my neck now, but not without pain.

[@Watchdog2023]

I really appreciate your knowledge and manner of teaching-you have helped me with my shoulder pain a lot!

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Watchdog, you're welcome! We are thrilled to hear you have been able to feel some relief from our content.🙌 Just in case you're interested or if you haven't seen it yet, we do have a rotator cuff tear help playlist. You can access it here: "Rotator Cuff Tear Help" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mbQ_-1YFfEePnrcxfwwf9_k Also, we have a more progressive way to approach rotator cuff tear recovery with our Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery Program. The Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery Program is a comprehensive program designed to get your shoulder pain under control to allow the rotator cuff tendons to heal. Then it guides you to correct the underlying root muscle imbalances so that you can fix the source of the problem (rather than just treat the symptoms) and get long-term relief from shoulder pain. This program works even if you've had rotator cuff surgery in the past but continue to have rotator cuff problems. To learn more please click this link: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/rotator-cuff-tear-recovery-program/ We wish you all the best in your road to recovery. We'd love to hear how you are doing as you progress.🙌 Please take care!

[@cwinsa]

Thank you for an excellent explanation about tears! I’m 65 and have SIS. I’ve been in PT for over a year and have been diligent with my home exercises. I’ve also received two steroid injections. A recent MRI showed: - A full thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon - A full thickness tear of the biceps long head tendon - A high grade, 80% tear of the subscapularis tendon - A degenerative tear in the posterior labrum - Moderate arthrosis of the AC and glenohumeral joints and - A type 2 acromion Based on the above, is it possible to heal without surgery as you’ve described?

[@jackcattell4932]

Feels so hard to get some good help great videos though 🙏

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Jack, we have a rotator cuff tear help playlist that has additional exercises and information to help with rotator cuff tear issues. There is a lot of helpful information there. You can access it here: "Rotator Cuff Tear Help" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mbQ_-1YFfEePnrcxfwwf9_k If you would like a progressive approach to your recovery we have a Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery program. The program is similar to our in-person treatments minus the manual manipulation. The Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery Program is a comprehensive program designed to get your shoulder pain under control to allow the rotator cuff tendons to heal. Then it guides you to correct the underlying root muscle imbalances so that you can fix the source of the problem (rather than just treat the symptoms) and get long-term relief from shoulder pain. This program works even if you've had rotator cuff surgery in the past but continue to have rotator cuff problems. To learn more please click this link: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/rotator-cuff-tear-recovery-program/ We hope you found this information beneficial. We wish you all the best in your road to recovery!

[@lencobb1177]

Great informative video, thank you

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Len, you are welcome!! Here is the Rotator Cuff Cuff Tear Help playlist in case you need it: "Rotator Cuff Tear Help" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mbQ_-1YFfEePnrcxfwwf9_k

[@ShirleyChang-d9h]

Thank for being so honest and letting us know about this!’

[@JJ-oi4jf]

What's the best way to sleep with a tear?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Great question JJ! Generally speaking the best way to sleep for a rotator cuff tear would be on the back to avoid pressure on the rotator cuff muscles.

[@katashley1031]

Been sleeping on my back or the other side, using a sling. Working well.

[@arphaksad01]

I had surgery to fix infraspinatus tear about 6 years ago. Recently, the I re-tore it due to weight lifting. I think it was tricep dips. Doing therapy focusing on teres major and rear deltoid strenghtening.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Sorry to hear that you retore your rotator cuff tendon @arphaksad01! It is unfortunately a common problem after a tendon repair.

[@123axel123]

My shoulder is almost healed after some seven months. Five months of (useless?) rest and two months of youtube physio. The El Paso videos have been the best of the lot on youtube. Definitely need to do your exercises, but I complemented with some additional exercises with a stretching band. It is not easy because there are so many "experts" online. I'm back in the gym since last week. No pain, but the mobility of the joint is only 90%. Hopefully that is a small problem that will be sorted with stretching. What I don't know is how much weight training I should get back to. Off course go slowly, but the question is how slowly. Reaching the hands behind the back. Is it time to do that kind of stretch? Would be nice with a video of what to do when you are 80% healed.

[@melissasmess2773]

Thanks!

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You are very welcome, Melissa! We really appreciate your support!

[@John-tz2hy]

Love your videos. Can you do one on what to do to repair teres muscles? Thanks!

[@obikenobi783]

what if the elbow of the injured rotator cuff tendon is also hurting, do i have bicep tendonitis then? is it the same treatment as for the rotator cuff tear? Thanks

[@shibibiju3794]

Is rotator cuff and bicep tendinitis are same. I have biceps tendinitis and I’m following your instructions.

[@Kris-ge5sw]

I found your videos after I fell and injured my shoulder. I’ve got to say I agree with a lot of the other commenters that you make more sense than most videos I’ve seen. I’m still in a lot of pain 4 days out. I’ve always believed surgery is a very last resort. I’m trying to do small movements, but it’s still very painful. Should I still keep trying to do light exercise through the pain or wait until the pain subsides? Thanks

[@TheUmbowa]

My mom is 73 years old and has a rotator cuff injury. Is there any way I can share her results with you, to get an opinion on whether or not she should go ahead with the total shoulder replacement surgery or if your rotator cuff program would help?

[@eventualrealityproductions5448]

Just got diagnosed with a slight rotator cuff tear. Love your holistic attitude and approach. Would a shoulder compression sleeve be advantageous? Blessings and peace!

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Eventual Reality Productions, We are sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with a rotator cuff tear, we know how painful and uncomfortable this can be. A sling would be our recommendation! "The BEST Home Remedy for a Torn Rotator Cuff" kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5i0aox4erVkmc0 This is the sling that is noted in the video: www.amazon.com/BraceUP-Adjustable-Support-Broken-Fractured/dp/B07L8X5343?crid=38DO4PXQOJQ20&keywords=brace+up+sling&qid=1703512479&sprefix=brace+up+sling,aps,137&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1&linkCode=sl1&tag=epmpt-20&linkId=5cc26a04e7d71c697ca4f789cc000cc9&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl We also want to share with you our playlist of Rotator Cuff Help here that will contain numerous videos that may also help! "Rotator Cuff Tear Help" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mbQ_-1YFfEePnrcxfwwf9_k We appreciate your support and hope you find this information helpful! Please let us know how you are doing as you progress 🙌🌟

[@faymoosa5064]

Best explanation ❤

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Faymoosa, Thank you for the kind words! Please take care! 🙌

[@bradlot5104]

You're the man bro 🙌

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Brad, Thanks so much!

[@SteveMack]

@epmanualphysicaltherapy Thanks so much for your sound advice on these topics! Cheers from Australia

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You are very welcome Steve! Howdy from El Paso, Texas!

[@SteveMack]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy Thanks mate! I've also shared your channel links around. Have a great weekend!

[@christynegerbasi4775]

What if it is a full tear? How does that heal if it is torn off and retracted?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Great question Christy! A full tear does not necessarily need to heal. The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles that are all useful in maintaining stability in the shoulders. If one of these muscles is completely torn, it is still very possible for the other muscles to pick up the slack and still provide the necessary stability to the shoulder. Hope this helps!

[@katashley1031]

Your prior video about this saved me. Using my homemade sling and just letting it heal has made a huge difference within days of my stupid injury.

[@amithagamage1824]

Good job ❤

[@NyiNyiTun]

I would like to know the difference between frozen shoulder and rotator cuff tear. I don't know which one I have it.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Nyi! To put it simply, frozen shoulder is a progressive issue where the shoulder begins to slowly lose range of motion for a while. This is commonly accompanied by pain and stiffness. A rotator cuff tear commonly just experiences pain but range of motion is available. If you can raise your arm all the way up, even if you assist it with your other arm, then you likely do not have frozen shoulder. Hope this helps!

[@NyiNyiTun]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy Thank you! I think I have a frozen shoulder. I am experiencing the exact things you said about the frozen shoulder. I cannot raise my one arm up completely no matter how I try. There is pain and stiffness too. Thanks so much!

[@katashley1031]

​@@NyiNyiTunI had that due to always sleeping on one side and my shoulder collapsing under my body at night. The chiro I worked for had me do daily stretches for the pectorals on that side and stop sleeping on that side while it healed. Even after one day of those stretches, improvement started, and it was gone within a week. I hope that helps.

[@shellybrooks3620]

Bless you! Very easy to follow and understand.

[@sharonglowa4432]

If it’s painful in front of shoulder do I still do these exercises? I had a cortisone shot 2 months ago it was better for about 2 weeks Wondering if should get an MRI? X-rays showed nothing

[@jackcattell4932]

My therapist was just like you can move your arm still your okay it will just take time, but he doesn't even know the cause yet..feels like he doesn't want to.

[@mariehughey5390]

I would like to try PrP injection in my left shoulder. Can you recommend anyone?

[@janicegunn9616]

I have none of the symptoms except upper arm pain. No tenderness in the shoulder. No shoulder pain. Only my arm hurts. I had an MRI and it shows a tear. I don't want to get surgery.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Janice, We would highly recommend a Virtual Consultation. By opting for a Virtual Consultation, you'll have the opportunity to have a one-on-one conversation with our doctors, where they can delve into the details of your condition and provide you with tailored guidance and coaching. This personalized approach ensures that you receive the individualized support and direction you need to make informed decisions about your health. To learn more about our Virtual Consultations including cost please click here: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/virtual-visit/ If you have a tear try some of the exercises in the rotator cuff playlist to see if you are feeling a difference but only if you aren't having any pain. Here is the playlist: "Rotator Cuff Tear Help" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mbQ_-1YFfEePnrcxfwwf9_k We'd love to hear how you are doing as you progress.🙌 Please take care!

[@preetimittal2123]

Your pain symtom is off and on or continuous pain .because my father has same kind of pain which you describe left arm or shoulder joint pain

[@suzannecamp1777]

I am very left handed. I have pain in my right but not continual only if l forget and reach up or back for something then l have a terrible pain. I can’t take my bra off as normal and have to be careful taking off clothes jackets the pain is in my upper arm Is that a tear my PA gave me exercises for a frozen should

[@fitforlife95]

El Paso!!! Is there an arm sling for office workers who need to use the right hand to type and click a mouse?

[@marlenekerrmarlene1259]

what do you think of a inflamation pill like meloxecam ????????????????

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Marlene, It’s okay to use anti-inflammatory medications like meloxicam temporarily, especially if pain is making it hard to move around. However, we generally prefer avoiding long-term medication use since it doesn’t address the root cause of the issue. For a rotator cuff problem, the root cause is often a muscle imbalance in the traps. Focusing on therapy exercises to correct this imbalance can be a much more effective and lasting solution. We have a Rotator Cuff Tear Help Playlist that might be helpful for you-you can access it here: "Rotator Cuff Tear Help" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mbQ_-1YFfEePnrcxfwwf9_k Start with one or two exercises, beginning with the smallest range of motion and the lowest intensity. As you feel stronger, you can gradually increase both the range of motion and intensity. It’s best to do these exercises every day throughout the day. Aim to tire out the muscle without losing form or control. Consistency is key. Always avoid working through pain; soreness and mild discomfort are normal, but pain is not. If you find that you have seen an improvement in your situation from using the playlist we would encourage you to look into the Rotator Cuff Tear. The Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery Program is a comprehensive program designed to get your shoulder pain under control to allow the rotator cuff tendons to heal. Then it guides you to correct the underlying root muscle imbalances so that you can fix the source of the problem (rather than just treat the symptoms) and get long-term relief from shoulder pain. This program works even if you've had rotator cuff surgery in the past but continue to have rotator cuff problems. To learn more please click this link: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/rotator-cuff-tear-recovery-program/ We hope you found this information helpful to you. We'd love to hear how you are doing as you progress.🙌 Please take care!

[@marlenekerrmarlene1259]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy thanks you are most kind to answer - will tell others

[@faymoosa5064]

I have a partial tear .

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Faymossa, we are so sorry to hear that you are dealing with a partial tear of the rotator cuff. This information can be very helpful for it. We also have a rotator cuff help playlist that would also be beneficial. You can access it here: "Rotator Cuff Tear Help" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mbQ_-1YFfEePnrcxfwwf9_k if you are looking for a more progressive approach to your recovery we have a Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery Program. The program is similar to our in-person treatments minus the manual manipulation. The Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery Program is a comprehensive program designed to get your shoulder pain under control to allow the rotator cuff tendons to heal. Then it guides you to correct the underlying root muscle imbalances so that you can fix the source of the problem (rather than just treat the symptoms) and get long-term relief from shoulder pain. This program works even if you've had rotator cuff surgery in the past but continue to have rotator cuff problems. To learn more please click this link: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/rotator-cuff-tear-recovery-program/ We wish you all the best in your road to recovery. We'd love to hear how you are doing as you progress.🙌 Please take care!

[@erickaarias1288]

Thank you I can see you love your career, God bless, because you are really helping us