Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 9/26/2007

Question
QUESTION: I had my rotator cuff/bicep tendon repaired 5 months and still cant use the arm.I have no ROM and alot of pain.My Orthopedic sent me for an EMG.Test showed abnormalties but he says that is NOT why the arm still dont work.Tricep tear at some attachment was mentioned and also pec minor not attached.Does this sound possible and if yes........is it fixable?

ANSWER: You did not mention whether you had any rehab of the shoulder to help restore motion and strength.  However, if there is a tear of the pec. minor and the triceps, it can most assuredly affect shoulder motion.  As far as fixable, that is a decision best left to your surgeon.

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QUESTION: yes I had alot of physical therapy,didnt help one bit.Could you tell me what symtoms you would have with a torn pec or tricep muscle?Thanks

Answer
Without an actual exam, it is difficult to diagnose.  But, tears usually will not allow you to actively (under your own power) move something, but can still be done passively (someone else doing it for you).  As an example, can someone else lift your arm for you and it moves, but you cannot do it on your own?  That may be indicative of a tear.