Can a chiropractor diagnose a torn rotator cuff?
You may be wondering if a chiropractor can diagnose a torn rotator cuff. In short, yes. Chiropractors are fully equipped to diagnose and assess rotator cuff injuries. Chiropractors can perform detailed physical exams and tests to evaluate the condition of your shoulder and muscles, in addition to ordering Diagnostic imaging like X-ray’s & MRI reports. These tests then allow us to determine the best next steps for you.
But, let’s talk more.
Living an active lifestyle in New York City means pushing your body to its limits. Whether you’re hitting the gym, playing sports, or just hustling through your busy day, your shoulders are key to almost every movement. So, when pain strikes—particularly in the form of a rotator cuff tear—it can stop you in your tracks. But can a chiropractor help? Let’s explore what a rotator cuff tear is, how chiropractors can diagnose and treat it, and why seeing a chiropractor may be a game-changer for your recovery.
What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow for a wide range of motion. When one or more of these tendons become damaged, torn, or inflamed, it can lead to pain, weakness, and difficulty moving the arm. Rotator cuff tears can be caused by:
Acute injuries (e.g., a fall or lifting something too heavy)
Chronic overuse (common in athletes, weightlifters, and people who perform repetitive overhead movements)
Age-related degeneration (as we age, the tendons naturally weaken)
Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to sharp pain, limited mobility, and a feeling of weakness in the arm.
Can a Chiropractor Diagnose a Rotator Cuff Tear?
Yes, chiropractors are fully equipped to diagnose and assess rotator cuff injuries. Chiropractors can perform detailed physical exams and tests to evaluate the condition of your shoulder and muscles, in addition to ordering Diagnostic imaging like X-ray’s & MRI reports. The physical tests may perform in office include:
1. The Drop Arm Test
This is one of the most common tests used to assess rotator cuff tears, specifically involving the supraspinatus tendon (the most commonly injured tendon). Here’s how it works:
The chiropractor asks you to raise your arm out to the side, keeping it straight, and hold it there.
Then, you’re instructed to slowly lower the arm back down to your side.
Positive Result: If you can’t lower your arm slowly or experience pain or weakness while doing so, it suggests a tear in the rotator cuff, particularly in the supraspinatus tendon.
2. The Empty Can Test (Jobe’s Test)
The Empty Can Test specifically evaluates the strength and integrity of the supraspinatus muscle. This test is particularly useful for identifying partial tears or tendonitis in the rotator cuff.
The chiropractor will ask you to hold your arms out in front of you at a 90-degree angle to your body, with the thumb pointing downward (as if you're emptying a can).
Then, the chiropractor will apply downward pressure to your arms while you resist.
Positive Result: If you experience pain or weakness while resisting, it may indicate a tear in the supraspinatus tendon.
3. Pain assessment and range of motion checks
To see how your shoulder moves and where the pain is most intense.
Based on the findings, a chiropractor can determine whether a rotator cuff tear is likely and refer you for imaging if necessary. They will also rule out other potential causes of shoulder pain, such as tendonitis, bursitis, or joint instability.
How Chiropractors Treat Rotator Cuff Tears
Once diagnosed, chiropractors offer a variety of treatments to help you recover from a rotator cuff tear, alleviate pain, and restore function. Here are some of the ways a chiropractor can help:
1. Spinal Adjustments and Mobilization
The shoulder joint doesn’t work in isolation; it’s connected to the rest of the body, especially the neck and upper back. If there are movement restrictions in the spine or other joints of the body, it can affect the way your shoulder moves and add stress to the rotator cuff. Chiropractors can perform gentle spinal adjustments or mobilizations to restore proper, improve range of motion & reduce inflammation,, which helps in the healing process.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy
Chiropractors are skilled in working with soft tissues (muscles, tendons, and ligaments) through techniques such as:
Instrument-assisted soft tissue work (IASTM): uses specialized tools to apply precise pressure to muscle and connective tissue, helping to release tight areas in surrounding musculature and improve mobility. For rotator cuff tears, this technique can promote healing, reduce stiffness, and enhance range of motion by targeting areas of muscle tension and improving circulation.
Myofascial Release: This therapy focuses on relieving tightness in the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles) to improve mobility and reduce pain.
3. Exercise Therapy
Rehabilitation exercises are essential for rotator cuff recovery. Chiropractors often incorporate therapeutic exercises into their treatment plans to strengthen the shoulder muscles and restore stability. These exercises may include:
Rotator cuff strengthening exercises (e.g., resistance band workouts/weighted workouts)
Range of motion exercises to restore flexibility and prevent stiffness
Postural exercises to correct any posture imbalances that may have contributed to the injury
A chiropractor will provide a customized rehab program based on your condition and progress, gradually increasing the intensity to help you regain full function of your shoulder.
5. Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice
Chiropractors aren’t just focused on your injury—they look at the big picture. If your rotator cuff tear was caused by poor posture, improper lifting techniques, or repetitive movements, they can provide advice on how to modify your activities to prevent further damage. They can also suggest ergonomic changes in your workspace or athletic routine to reduce the risk of future injuries.
When Should You See a Chiropractor?
If you’re dealing with shoulder pain or suspect a rotator cuff injury, it’s important to get checked out as soon as possible. The earlier the issue is addressed, the quicker you can recover. Chiropractors are ideal for managing musculoskeletal injuries like rotator cuff tears, especially if you want to avoid invasive treatments like surgery or prolonged use of pain medication.
Chiropractic care can be a crucial part of your recovery, whether you’re still in the early stages of injury, have been dealing with chronic pain, or even BETTER, WHEN YOU ARE WELL TO MAINTAIN THAT WELLNESS! Their approach is holistic, focusing on the underlying causes of your pain and working to restore function naturally.
Where to find chiropractic care for shoulder injuries in New York City
Rotator cuff tears are a common injury for active individuals, but they don’t have to derail your fitness goals or lifestyle. Chiropractors can play a pivotal role in diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating shoulder injuries like rotator cuff tears. Through a combination of adjustments, soft tissue work, exercise therapy, and more, chiropractors can help you get back to doing what you love—without the pain.
If you’re in New York City and struggling with shoulder pain, don’t wait for the injury to worsen. I’d love to help you take the first step toward a stronger, pain-free shoulder. Your body will thank you for it!
Cruz Chiropractic is conveniently located on Broadway in the Flatiron District and you can get started today by booking your free consult call. To learn more about our services, check out our chiropractic services page.
