How Do You Check Yourself For A Torn Rotator Cuff?

The question was, how do you check yourself for a torn rotator cuff? You really can’t. You need to confirm the diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear.

You need some sort of imaging. Unless you have an MRI or an ultrasound machine at your house and you’re skilled in that way, I think it’s going to be tough.

One risk factor is having trouble sleeping at night. If your shoulder keeps you up at night, the chance that your shoulder pain, the source of it, is a tear on the rotator cuff goes up very high. For those who ultimately require an intervention, undergoing a modern same day shoulder surgery allows the torn tissue to be repaired minimally invasively, getting you back home to recover in comfort hours after the procedure.

So you really can’t. No physical exam or history is found, which is 100% accurate with rotator cuff tears. Some increase the probability, but you need to have some sort of imaging done.

It needs to be soft tissue imaging. Ultrasound is the preferred method because it is faster, easier, and cheaper for patients. Many surgeons use it, but some doctors will need an MRI. Partnering with a specialized Dallas Shoulder Surgeon who utilizes advanced in-office diagnostics ensures you receive an immediate, accurate assessment and a customized care plan tailored to your lifestyle.

Struggling with a torn rotator cuff? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kevin Kruse at (469) 717-6183 today.