A torn rotator cuff often happens when you engage the muscles of the area with repetitive strain, such as throwing a baseball, or swimming laps in a pool. Although the injury is more common in people over 40, people younger than 40 are also susceptible. Repeated, loaded movements on the shoulder joint causes progressive wear and inflammation in the delicate shoulder joint. The small muscles that comprise the rotator cuff already have limited blood flow, so overworking them is an easy thing to do.

The initial symptom of a rotator cuff injury is a light, dull pain, usually starting at night from a day’s activity. It will often get worse if left untreated.

Seeking a rotator cuff remedy early is critical, as you do not want to end up in a condition called frozen shoulder. This is where arm movement is restricted severely from pain, and any daily activity involving the arm causes much suffering. If you’ve even had a rotator cuff injury then tried driving a car, you know what I mean.

An injured rotator cuff can last as long as 3 years if not treated properly. You must take the injury seriously from the start. Reduce the healing time and prevent frozen shoulder by using rotator cuff exercises under the supervision of a doctor or trained physical therapist. Be sure the program involves stretching too.

If you play lots of sports, an untreated rotator cuff will also result in a loss of strength, so treat the area with a proper treatment program and let it heal before resuming your sporting activities. If you don’t, you risk re-injury and a lengthy healing process. Save yourself the trouble and pain, and do the rotator cuff exercises you need.