Rotator Cuff Injuries over Age 60: What You Should Know

You might not think much about your rotator cuff — a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize your shoulder — until it hurts. As you age, the risk of rotator cuff injuries increases, especially after the age of 60. 

Rotator cuff injuries cause pain, weakness, and limited mobility, and thankfully, it’s something our board-certified orthopedic surgeons routinely diagnose and treat here at Orthopedic Specialists of Oakland County in Bloomfield Hills and Clarkston, Michigan.

Learn more about rotator cuff injuries

Over time, the tendons — strong rope-like tissue that connects muscles to bones — in your shoulder can  become frayed or torn due to wear-and-tear, repetitive motions, or sudden injuries. 

This can result in pain when lifting your arm, reaching overhead, or even during simple tasks like dressing.

Why are your risks of rotator cuff injury greater after age 60?

It’s true that young adults, such as professional baseball pitchers who put a lot of strain on their shoulders, can develop rotator cuff injuries, but the truth is that your greatest risk of injury is after 60. 

This is because after this age, the tendons in your shoulder naturally become less flexible and more prone to injury. Years of use can lead to degeneration, which makes them more susceptible to tears. 

Another point to consider: Decreased blood supply (another effect of aging) to the rotator cuff tendons can slow down the healing process and prolong recovery.

Warning signs of a shoulder problem

Because many rotator cuff injuries develop slowly as a result of wear-and-tear, you can learn to spot the earliest signs of a shoulder issue. 

If you notice persistent shoulder pain, weakness when lifting your arm, or a crackling sensation when moving your shoulder, you might be dealing with a rotator cuff injury. 

You might also have trouble reaching behind your back, getting dressed, or finding a comfortable position to sleep. 

The pain can be mild at first but may worsen over time, especially if left untreated.

Treating rotator cuff injuries 

If you suspect a rotator cuff injury, it’s important to seek medical care here at Orthopedic Specialists of Oakland County. The first step in addressing shoulder pain is to confirm the source of your symptoms.

Once our team of orthopedic surgeons confirms a rotator cuff injury, they will create a treatment plan based on the type of injury and the severity of any tendon tears. Treatments may include wearing a splint, injections, or physical therapy.

In some cases, a rotator cuff injury is best treated with surgery. Our expert team of surgeons at Orthopedic Specialists of Oakland County uses minimally invasive surgical techniques to repair your tendons and treat your shoulder injury.

Regardless of what type of treatment you have, physical therapy stretches can help strengthen your shoulder and improve your range of motion. It’s also an important part of your post-surgery recovery plan.

Prevent rotator cuff injuries after 60

Now that you know what causes rotator cuff injuries, why you’re at a higher risk after age 60, and how they’re treated, let’s talk about what you can do to prevent the issue altogether. 

Exercise

Regular exercise, especially resistance training and stretching, can help keep your shoulder muscles strong and limber. Always use proper techniques during physical activities, especially if you’re lifting weights or pitching.

Use smart lifting techniques

Avoid lifting heavy objects overhead. If you need to lift something above your head, use tools, ladders, or a friend to help.

Use ergonomic equipment

Poor posture can make shoulder pain worse. If you regularly use a computer, make sure your workspace is set up to avoid shoulder pain. Adjust your chair, desk, and monitor to keep your shoulders in a neutral position, and take regular breaks to stretch and move. 

Not only does this help your shoulders, but it also helps prevent other issues like carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, and neck pain.

Try cross-training

Because rotator cuff injuries are often the result of wear-and-tear, it’s a good idea to cross-train to avoid shoulder injuries. This means that if you regularly hit the gym for arm workouts, try adding other workouts to your weekly routine to give your shoulders a break. This could include strength training exercises for your legs, cardio workouts, or cycling. 

As you age, taking care of your shoulders becomes increasingly important, and we’re here to help! 

If you have concerns about rotator cuff injuries — no matter what your age is —  click here to book an appointment. You can also call 248-335-2977 to speak with our friendly staff.