Understanding Your Injury Part One: Rotator Cuff Tears  

Have you been told that you have a rotator cuff tear? If so, read this!!

From tears and pain to decreased function, we’re covering it all. Let’s break down the types of tendon tears and how they present:

Grade I – Pain is present, but strength is still there!
Grade II (Partial Thickness)- Pain is significant, and strength is limited.
Grade III (Complete/Full thickness Tear) – No pain, but strength is completely gone in all directions.

So, can these be treated with conservative treatments like Physical Therapy?
ABSOLUTELY. 

Now what to do if you receive this news? 

Step one is don’t panic. Rotator cuff “tears” are extremely common within the athletic population and most folks don’t even know they have them 🤯

Step two is to meet with a trusted orthopedic doc or physical therapist. Both of which have the ability successfully diagnose the rotator cuff involvement. Either way, you should ALWAYS get a second opinion to ensure you’re making the best decision for YOU. 

Step Three: Crush your PT. There has been fantastic evidence to show that TRUE and involved PT is the Gold standard treatment (especially in the overhead/throwing population). If this does not succeed (which is does for most folks), then arthroscopic surgery may be indicated. 

That’s all folks 

Stay Moving

Stay Vertical

Dr. Jack