Pain-Relief Test
One of the most common diagnostic tests for a rotator cuff injury is the pain-relief test. During this procedure, the doctor will inject lidocaine into your shoulder joint. This element can help distinguish between a rotator cuff tear and tendinitis. This is very important in deciding the overall treatment plan. If lidocaine provides pain-relieving effects and your muscle strength remains normal, it suggests a rotator cuff tendonitis. Otherwise, a tear might occur when the muscle remains weak. [2]
