U.S. doctors online nowAsk doctors free
AU
A 58-year-old female asked:

Can a torn rotator cuff muscle result in aching in the shoulder and arm without any real restrictions in movement?

1 doctor answer1 doctor weighed in
Dr. Edward Hellman
Orthopedic Surgery 31 years experience
Not likely: A torn rotator cuff can definitely cause pain in the shoulder and arm, but the vast majority of the time the pain will be worse with motions like lifting your head over your arm or reaching behind your back. If you have absolutely no increased pain when you move your arm, it does bring the diagnosis into question. A pinched nerve in the neck can cause shoulder that is not worse with motion.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Apr 5, 2018

Disclaimer:

Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.