Rotator Cuff Tear

What is Rotator Cuff Tear?

A rotator cuff tear is a common cause of pain and disability among adults. A torn rotator cuff will weaken your shoulder. This means that many daily activities, like combing your hair or getting dressed, may become painful and difficult to do. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that come together as tendons to form a covering around the head of the humerus. The rotator cuff attaches the humerus to the shoulder blade and helps to lift and rotate your arm. There is a sac of lubricating fluid between the rotator cuff and the bone on top of your shoulder (acromion).

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves: • Physical examination to test range of motion and strength • Specific tests like drop arm test and painful arc test • X-rays to rule out bone spurs or other bone problems • Ultrasound to visualize soft tissues and tears in real-time • MRI for detailed images of rotator cuff and degree of tear • Arthrogram (dye injection) before MRI for better visualization • Assessment of pain patterns and functional limitations

Treatment

Treatment depends on size and severity of tear: • Rest and activity modification • NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation • Physical therapy to strengthen shoulder muscles • Steroid injections for pain relief • Surgery for larger tears or those that don't respond to conservative treatment • Arthroscopic repair for smaller tears • Open repair for large or complex tears • Shoulder replacement in severe cases with arthritis • Post-surgical rehabilitation (3-6 months recovery)