Sore shoulder - rotator cuff?

Just moved house. Whilst shifting boxes I felt a pain in my left shoulder - just higher than a typical injection site. Painful to lie on (to the point where I can't get to sleep on that side) and I get cracking noises from certain movements. Anyone got any ideas what I've done? Not a fan of doctors or emergency rooms, but do I need either?

I ate some serius shit on my mountain bike... long story short... I couldn't move my shoulder for like 3 weeks.

I didn't want to see a docter either, it wasn't getting better for a while, It slowly started to get better after about 3 weeks then after like 5 weeks it was 100%...

So in my experience, I didn't go to the doc and it healed up to 100% now! I would say wait a week and if it aint better go in, or wait like a month like me...

I think I tore my rotator cuff but I don't know... Good luck on a speedy recovery!!!!

That sounds like a plan! I'll keep popping the pills and give it a month or so.....

Whitewalls - I've had a recurring rotator cuff injury. Usually it's triggered by working over my head (stapling plastic sheeting to the ceiling of the basement, for instance). If you have an injury similar to mine, and I'm not sure all RC injuries are the same, the symptoms would include pain when you lift your arm, especially over your shoulder. If that's the case, you'll need exercises to help stabilize the shoulder.

Give it a few days. If it doesn't get better, you might do some research online or talk to a PT.

OP? How's the shoulder now?

Big difference in a shoulder separation and rotator cuff or labrum tear.

Not a doc but have had all three now in same shoulder.

The last two usually require surgery and a separation does not (or least it did not for my 3rd degree separation.

Good luck.

lynchdogger wrote:OP? How's the shoulder now? Big difference in a shoulder separation and rotator cuff or labrum tear. Not a doc but have had all three now in same shoulder. The last two usually require surgery and a separation does not (or least it did not for my 3rd degree separation. Good luck.

Hey there! Professional PT putting me through it - looking like impingement and bursitis together. Range of movement improving. Thanks for asking, and happy climbing.

wonderwoman wrote:I have recurring rotator cuff issues on my left side. I describe it as happily tying in / opening a door / brushing my hair only to suddenly feel as if somebody were stabbing me in the shoulder with a screwdriver, and twisting. I have had PT a few times over the years. Now I know the routine that works for me: - Take some time off - Vitamin I when needed - Bust out the resistance bands / light weights and work those opposing muscles (there are plenty of exercises to be found online) - Push ups - Massage (when I can afford it) PT is amazing. Once they show you a routine - follow it. I hope you feel better!

Hi wonderwoman, thanks for the reply - what vitamins are you using? I've been using glucosamine (rubbing it in) but anything else I can use would be good. Starting to lose muscle mass in and around shoulder blade because of limited movement. Hurts like hell just as you describe, but not when brushing my hair (don't have any!)

wonderwoman wrote:Vitamin I is ibuprofen! :)

Shit - can you od on vitamins then? Chewing them like candy!!