Vitamin B12 is involved in a number of biological processes that keep the nervous and neurological systems healthy. When levels drop too low, troubles are almost certain to occur. Pain that interferes with regular activities is one of them.

The synthesis of DNA and red blood cells is dependent on vitamin B12. A deficiency occurs when the body is unable to absorb the nutrient. This deficiency usually results in an increase in homocysteine, which can compromise tendon integrity. This could eventually result in a rotator cuff injury.

“The rotator cuff (RC) is responsible for stabilizing and moving the shoulder,” according to High Mountain Orthopaedics.

“When patients tear their RC, they typically experience pain, instability, and have a difficult time performing day-to-day activities.”

According to Cedars Sinai, the condition can also produce “pain that keeps coming back, especially when doing certain things, such as lifting your head.” This may make it difficult for you to sleep.

Injury and degeneration are the two most common causes of tears in the RC, however low B12 levels have also been linked in several studies.

In a limited sample of participants, a study published in the journal BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders in 2021 looked into the relationship between vitamin b12 levels and degenerative rotator cuff tear.

The study looked at 87 patients, both with and without a shoulder injury, and looked at all possible risk variables.

The study authors noted that “The group of patients with degenerative RC tear had […] significantly lower [b12 levels] than the healthy control group.”

“Low serum levels of vitamin B12 were independently related to degenerative RC tear,” they observed.

However, the findings call for more investigation into the significance of vitamin B12 in avoiding the condition.

According to Harvard Health, the average healing time for rotator cuff tendonitis is two to four weeks, although obstinate instances might take months to recover from.

When the symptoms first appear, the priority should be on minimizing tendons swelling and inflammation.

The rotator cuff, which is found in the shoulder, is made up of shoulder tendons that work together to stabilize the joint, rotate it, and raise the arm above the head.

Tendonitis normally begins with a low-grade inflammation of one tendon, but if left untreated, it can extend to all three.

Who’s vulnerable?

Because vitamin B12 can be found in meat, dairy, and eggs, persons who avoid these foods may be at danger.

Fortunately, once consumed, the substance is stored in the liver, where it can last for years and meet the body’s demands.

According to the National Library of Medicine, “patients who have followed a strict vegan diet for approximately three years may develop a B12 deficiency from a lack of dietary intake.”

Vitamin B12 binds with a protein called intrinsic factor during digestion, allowing it to be absorbed lower down in the colon.

The natural substance is usually made in the lining of the stomach, so anyone who has gastric surgery could have low levels of intrinsic factor as a result.

Vitamin B12 absorption is lower in the elderly compared to the younger population, owing to stomach irritation.

Vitamin B12 injections or supplementation may be prescribed for people who fall into this category to help correct their B12 levels.

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