A torn rotator cuff can significantly impact daily life and physical activity. Many individuals wonder about continuing their exercise routines, particularly running, after such an injury. Understanding the injury and its implications for movement is important for informed decisions about physical activity.
Understanding a Torn Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These muscles are the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. Their main function is to stabilize the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) within the shallow socket of the shoulder blade (scapula), while also enabling a wide range of arm movements like lifting and rotation.
A torn rotator cuff occurs when one or more of these tendons tear, either partially or completely. Common symptoms include pain, particularly when moving the arm or lying on the affected side, and weakness in the arm. Other symptoms include clicking or crackling sensations in the shoulder with certain movements, or difficulty with daily tasks like lifting or combing hair.
Running with a Torn Rotator Cuff
Running with a torn rotator cuff is generally not recommended. While running primarily involves lower body movement, the upper body, including the shoulders, plays a role in maintaining balance, posture, and generating arm swing for propulsion.
Engaging in running with a torn rotator cuff can exacerbate the injury, potentially leading to increased pain, further tearing of the tendon, or delayed healing. The repetitive arm swing and the slight jarring motion experienced during running can place stress on the compromised shoulder joint. This can hinder the natural healing process and may contribute to the development of chronic pain or instability in the shoulder.
Steps for Recovery and Safe Activity
If a rotator cuff tear is suspected, consulting a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan is the first step. Treatment options can range from non-surgical approaches to surgical intervention, depending on the tear’s severity. Many individuals with partial tears can improve with non-surgical methods.
Common non-surgical recovery steps include rest, applying ice to the affected area, and engaging in physical therapy. Physical therapy involves specific strengthening and stretching exercises designed to restore shoulder function and motion without causing further damage. Pain management, often through nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or steroid injections, may also be part of the treatment plan.
If surgery is required, recovery typically involves a period of immobilization in a sling, usually for 4 to 6 weeks, followed by a structured physical therapy program that can last several months. Full recovery can take anywhere from 4 to 18 months, depending on the tear’s size and the individual’s progress.
During recovery, alternative low-impact activities can help maintain fitness without stressing the injured shoulder. Examples include stationary cycling, which minimizes arm movement, or lower-body exercises like squats and lunges. Wall push-ups, doorway stretches, and pendulum exercises are often recommended as safe ways to gently improve shoulder mobility and strength. Adhering to medical advice and gradually reintroducing activities under professional guidance is important to ensure a safe and effective return to full activity.