What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
A rotator cuff is a group of tendons in the shoulder joint that provides support and enables a wide range of motion. A major injury to these tendons may result in rotator cuff tears. It is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain in middle-aged and older individuals.
What are the Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears?
A rotator cuff tear may occur with repeated use of the arm for overhead activities, while playing sports, a motor vehicle/cycle accident, and more commonly after a traumatic fall. Incidentally, rotator cuff tears also happen as a normal factor of aging and weakening tissue.
What are the Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears?
A rotator cuff tear can cause severe pain, weakness of the arm and difficulty moving the shoulder into certain positions. There may be stiffness, swelling, loss of movement and tenderness in the front of the shoulder.
How is a Rotator Cuff Tear Diagnosed?
Your surgeon diagnoses a rotator cuff tear based on a physical examination. X-rays will also be obtained to evaluate the bony relationship in the shoulder and an MRI will often be performed for those who are failing to improve, or as an adjunct for surgical planning.
What are the Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears?
Conservative treatment
The conservative treatment options for rotator cuff tears are:
- Rest
- Shoulder Sling
- Pain medication
- Injection of a steroid (cortisone) and a local anesthetic in the subacromial space of the affected shoulder to relieve inflammation and pain
- Physical therapy inclusive of Home Exercises
Surgery for Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator cuff repair may be performed by open or arthroscopic surgery. In arthroscopy, the space for rotator cuff tendons will be increased and the cuff tear is repaired using suture anchors. These anchor sutures help in attaching the tendons to the shoulder bone. Following the surgery, you may be advised to practice motion and strengthening exercises.
