Can a torn rotator cuff make your elbow hurt?

Acute tear The common symptom of acute rotator cuff tears, which usually go away after a period of time, include: Severe pain that originates from the upper area of your shoulder down toward the elbow. Intense pain caused by muscle spasms and bleeding.

What can refer pain to the elbow?

Referred pain is a term used to describe a sensation of pain that is felt in a location other than the site of an injury. Referred pain in the elbow is when pain is felt in the elbow but the cause of the pain is located elsewhere. Physiotherapy is a successful treatment for referred pain in the elbow.

What does an inflamed rotator cuff feel like?

The classic symptoms include a ‘toothache’ like pain radiating from the outer arm to several inches below the top of the shoulder. Pain may also occur in the front and top of the shoulder. It may interfere with sleeping comfortably. It may even awaken people from a sound sleep with a nagging pain in the upper arm.

Where is rotator cuff pain located?

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, keeping the head of your upper arm bone firmly within the shallow socket of the shoulder. A rotator cuff injury can cause a dull ache in the shoulder, which often worsens with use of the arm away from the body.

How do I know if my shoulder pain is referred?

Sharp pain under your shoulder blade. Dull ache in your shoulder. Pain that goes from your neck to your shoulder blade (or vice versa) Stabbing, burning, tingling, or even an “electric” feeling in your shoulder.

Is referred pain neurological?

Simply stated, referred pain happens because the nerves in your body are all connected. When your body experiences a pain stimulus, your nervous system carries the signal to your brain. The brain then sends a signal to your body that you’re experiencing pain.

How can you tell if pain is referred?

“If you bang your elbow and immediately feel pain in your elbow at the point of injury, that’s primary pain. On the other hand, arm or leg pain that is deep or diffuse without an easily identifiable source is more likely to be referred pain.”