Joe A Shaw PA-C - 7/1/2009

Question
Joe,
First of thank you for taking the time to read and answer these questions. OK here it goes, 4 weeks ago I hurt my shoulder and pretty sure it has something to do with the rotator cuff. The thing im most worried about is that when I lift my left arm up from my side my whole shoulder moves up and almost touches my neck. Compared to the right shoulder it looks very deformed. I got x-rays and saw a Dr. who wanted to try physical therapy. Now I'm 2 weeks into PT and its no better. The Dr. didn't really say much was just wondering what your take on it is? I feel a poping/catching sensation and the pain hurts in the top part of my arm/shoulder more so when I do certain movements. It also seems like my arm is just getting weaker, I can barely open my drivers side door.

 Thanks,
           Adam

Answer
Adam,
Without doing an exam etc it is impossible for me to say...but you probably need an MRI if you have this "very deformed" area, MRI's are about 95% accurate in diagnosing rotator cuff tears. Xrays should have ruled out any fractures or dislocations. Your Dr should have given you a diagnosis regardless?