Loss of strength

A rotator cuff tear is usually accompanied by a more or less pronounced loss of strength in the arm and shoulder. This is because the rotator cuff is made up of four large muscles. If one or more of these muscles is damaged, the function of the corresponding muscle may be restricted.

In the event of a complete rupture, complete functional failure may also occur. Those affected usually notice the problem quickly when they notice a significant loss of strength in the arm. Lifting simple things becomes more difficult or is no longer possible and tensing the muscles is also more difficult. The loss of strength is therefore a typical sign of a rotator cuff rupture.

Painkillers

In the case of a rotator cuff rupture, patients may suffer from severe pain, which becomes worse during movement. Painkillers are used in the therapy to prevent the development of incorrect posture, to enable a movement sequence appropriate to the circumstances and to increase the patient’s suffering. The drugs used are different groups of drugs, which are used depending on the severity of the pain.

However, there are also other types of application such as by injection or topically (on the skin). Topical painkillers include ointments, creams and gels, which also contain the pain and inflammation-reducing active ingredient ibuprofen or diclofenac. Which analgesic is suitable for a rotator cuff rupture depends on the severity of the injury and on possible underlying diseases of the person affected, as not all drugs are compatible with each other.

Therapy with painkillers can therefore vary from case to case.

These include above all the so-called NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) with the best-known representatives ibuprofen, diclofenac or naproxen (ASA should not be used as it increases the bleeding tendency and could promote swelling), COX-2 inhibitors such as etoricoxib
Weakly effective opioids like Tillidine or Tramadol
In rare cases of severe pain opioids such as fentanyl or morphine. Painkillers are usually taken orally (via the mouth).

Pain with a rotator cuff rupture
Painkillers
Drugs