I think I tore my Rotator Cuff

DEAR ASK THE DOCTOR: I play baseball almost 3 times a week. Lately I can't even lift my throwing arm up when i got to pitch. There is a real sharp pain in my shoulder. Does this mean my rotator cuff is torn?

DEAR ROGER: The most common symptom of a rotator cuff problem is pain. Patients usually complain of pain over the top of the shoulder and arm. In some patients, the pain can descend down the outside of the arm all the way to the elbow.

The other common symptom of a rotator cuff tear is weakness of the shoulder. Weakness causes difficulty lifting the arm up overhead or difficulty with activities such as reaching, getting dressed, carrying objects or throwing a ball in your case. If the pain is very strong I suggest going to see a sports doctor right away so you can begin treatment on it. When playing as much baseball as you do, it is important to do strengthing exercises for the rotator cuff and neck extensor muscles to prevent a tear from happening again. I hope this helps!