I Can’t Raise My Arm
Difficulty raising the arm has various causes including frozen shoulder, rotator cuff disease, and impingement syndrome. The cause differs based on which angle it stops at and whether there’s pain.
Cause Differentiation by Symptoms
Stiff and Won’t Raise at Any Angle
→ Possible frozen shoulder: Joint capsule stiffens, limiting movement in all directions.
Pain at Specific Angle (60-120 degrees), Fine Above That
→ Possible impingement syndrome: Pain occurs when bone and tendon collide.
Weakness or Catching When Trying to Raise
→ Possible rotator cuff injury: Tendon damage causes decreased strength.
Treatment Direction
- Frozen shoulder: Must release joint capsule adhesions and gradually increase range of motion.
- Impingement syndrome: Must reduce inflammation and correct shoulder movement patterns.
- Rotator cuff injury: Conservative treatment or surgery needed depending on severity of damage.
Accurate Diagnosis Is Important
Causes of inability to raise arm are varied, and treatment differs by cause. Functional evaluation is needed to find the exact cause.
Circulation Therapy Restores Shoulder Movement
- Circulation HD: Releases adhesed joint capsule and fascia.
- Circulation PT: Restores proper shoulder movement patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
- Hegedus EJ et al. Physical examination tests of the shoulder: a systematic review with meta-analysis of individual tests. Br J Sports Med. 2008;42(2):80-92.
- Lewis J. Rotator cuff related shoulder pain: assessment, management and uncertainties. Man Ther. 2016;23:57-68.
- Lim JK et al. Subacromial impingement syndrome. Clin Shoulder Elb. 2019;22(2):57-59.
- Tashjian RZ. Epidemiology, natural history, and indications for treatment of rotator cuff tears. Clin Sports Med. 2012;31(4):589-604.
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