Rotator Cuff Injuries: Symptoms and Treatment [4 of 5]

How long does a rotator cuff injury take to heal?

If this is a first time injury. Proper care and sufficient healing time before resuming activity should prevent permanent disability. Torn ligaments and tendons require as long to heal as fractured bones do. The average healing times are:

1. Mild strain: 2 to 10 days
2. Moderate strain: 10 days to 6 weeks
3. Severe strain: 6 to 10 weeks.

If this is a repeat injury the complications listed above are more likely to occur.

What treatment should I use for a rotator cuff injury?

The most important part about treating a rotator cuff injury is to get the right diagnosis. Some supplemental first aids are the "R.I.C.E." instructions: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (if possible). It is helpful, as continuing care, to use an ice pack 3 or 4 times a day for 15 minutes at a time. Place ice chips or cubes in a plastic bag. Wrap the bag in a moist towel, and place it over the injured area. After the first 72 hours, application of localized heat promotes healing by increasing blood circulation in the injured area. Use heat lamps, hot baths, showers, heating pads or heat liniments and ointments. Take whirlpool treatments, if available. Massage gently and often to provide comfort and decrease swelling. Wrap the injured shoulder with an elasticized bandage between treatments.

What medications, if any, are recommended?

Your doctor may prescribe: (1) Aspirin, Acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve minor pain. Topical liniments and ointments (2) Your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers or an injection of a long-acting local anesthetic to reduce pain. Your doctor may also prescribe injections of corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone to reduce inflammation .

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