SHOULDER PAIN · DECISION GUIDE · LOGANSPORT, IN
Rotator Cuff vs. Impingement vs. Frozen Shoulder: How to Tell (and What to Do First)
These three are commonly confused — but the best “first step” differs.
If you’ve been told “it’s probably your rotator cuff,” you’re not alone. Here are practical pattern checks to help you understand what’s most likely — and what to do first.
- Simple pattern checks
- First-step plan for each scenario
- Clear red flags
Quick Pattern Checks
Not a diagnosis—just a way to narrow the most likely bucket.
Frozen Shoulder (stiff + blocked)
Key sign: your shoulder feels “stuck,” especially rotating outward. Pain may be present, but stiffness is dominant.
First step: staged mobility (not aggressive stretching) + a plan that respects tissue irritability.
Impingement-Type Pain (painful arc)
Key sign: pain during part of the lift (often 60–120°), worse with repeated overhead work.
First step: improve scapular mechanics + mobility + gradual strengthening.
Rotator Cuff Irritation (tendon overload)
Key sign: pain/weakness with lifting away from the body and lowering the arm; night pain is common.
First step: load management + specific tendon strengthening and technique cleanup.
When to Worry
Seek urgent evaluation for deformity after injury, inability to lift the arm, sudden severe swelling, fever, chest pain/shortness of breath, or new numbness/weakness down the arm.
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