The health care provider suspects a rotator cuff injury in a client who is an avid tennis player. The nurse would most likely assess which of the following?

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11ecbb05_ca13_f989_b433_05b8fe137718_MD0009_00 The rotator cuff is a group of 4 shoulder muscles and tendons that attach to the humeral head. It allows for rotation of the arm. A partial or full thickness rotator cuff tear can occur gradually over time as a result of aging, repetitive use, or an injury to the shoulder. It can also occur as a result of a sports injury involving repetitive overhead arm motion (eg, swimming, tennis, baseball, weight lifting). Characteristic symptoms of rotator cuff injury usually include shoulder pain and weakness. Severe pain when the arm is abducted between 60 and 120 degrees (painful arc) is characteristic (Option C). (Option A) Restriction of active and passive ranges of motion of the shoulder (complete stiffness) is seen with frozen shoulder. (Option B) Pain and paresthesia over the first 3½ fingers suggest carpal tunnel syndrome. (Option D) Tenderness over the lateral epicondyle is seen with tennis elbow. Educational objective: Rotator cuff injury involves a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder. Characteristic symptoms of rotator cuff injury usually include shoulder pain and weakness. Severe pain when the arm is abducted between 60 and 120 degrees (painful arc) is characteristic.

The Health Care Provider Suspects a Rotator Cuff Injury in a Client