Rotator Cuff Tear

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What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

The rotator cuff is part of the shoulder that helps protect the joint and allows you to move your arm over your head. Your rotator cuff allows you to reach for something on a high shelf above you, for example. The rotator cuff is especially utilized in sports like basketball, swimming, and tennis. Shoulder pain may be caused by a rotator cuff tear.

There are two types of rotator cuff tears: partial and complete tears. A partial rotator cuff tear occurs when the tendon protecting the part of the shoulder joint is damaged. A complete rotator cuff tear occurs when the tendon is completely torn, or the tendon is pulled off the bone.

Painful shoulder

Rotator Cuff Tear Causes

Rotator Cuff Tears may vary in severity depending on the root cause.

Rotator Cuff Tears from Overuse
  • Rotator cuff tears may be caused by repetitive arm motions from sports such as baseball, tennis, swimming, etc.
  • Rotator Cuff Tears may be caused by repetitive arm motions during activities like painting or cleaning windows.
Rotator Cuff Tears from Injury
  • Rotator Cuff Tears may occur after a sudden fall or from heavy lifting.

Rotator Cuff Tear Symptoms

Depending on the severity of the rotator cuff tear, the injury may not be immediately apparent. Symptoms of rotator cuff tears may include:

  • Difficulty raising the arm
  • Shoulder pain while moving the arm
  • Shoulder pain while lying on the arm
  • Feeling of weakness in the shoulder​
  • Difficulty lifting ordinary objects
  • A clicking or popping sound when moving the arm

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a shoulder specialist right away for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. If left untreated, a rotator cuff tear can lead to other conditions such as frozen shoulder or shoulder arthritis. Getting diagnosed as early as possible is always best, in order to receive the most effective treatment.

Doctor exam

Rotator Cuff Tear Diagnosis

Our shoulder specialists may use the following methods to diagnose a rotator cuff tear including:

  • MRI
  • X-rays
  • Ultrasound

Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment

Once a rotator cuff tear has been diagnosed, our shoulder specialists may recommend:

  • Physical Therapy
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
Depending on the severity of the rotator cuff tear, our shoulder specialists may recommend rotator cuff surgery, particularly in the case of a complete rotator cuff tear. There are three types of rotator cuff surgery:
  • Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Surgery
  • Open Rotator Cuff Surgery
  • Mini-Open Rotator Cuff Surgery
If our shoulder specialists determine that surgery is the best treatment plan for your shoulder pain, we will ensure that you receive the best care possible as well as tailored recovery plans suitable to your needs.
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