Rotator cuff tear

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A rotator cuff tear is a common injury involving the shoulder's rotator cuff muscles or tendons. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their associated tendons that stabilize the shoulder and allow for its wide range of motion.

Anatomy

The rotator cuff consists of the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis muscles. These muscles originate from the scapula and attach to the humerus, forming a cuff around the shoulder joint.

Types

Rotator cuff tears can be classified into two main types:

• Partial tear: This type of tear damages the soft tissue but does not completely sever it.
• Full-thickness tear: This type of tear is more severe and involves a complete rupture of the tendon.

Causes

Rotator cuff tears can result from:

• Acute injury: Sudden trauma, such as falling on an outstretched arm.
• Chronic overuse: Repetitive overhead activities, common in sports like baseball and tennis, or occupations such as painting and carpentry.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing a rotator cuff tear:

• Age: The risk increases with age due to wear and tear.
• Repetitive overhead activities: Sports and jobs that involve frequent overhead motions.
• Trauma: Direct injury to the shoulder.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include:

• Shoulder pain, especially at night
• Weakness in the shoulder
• Limited range of motion

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Physical examination: Assessing pain, range of motion, and strength.
• Imaging studies: X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI to visualize the tear.

Differential Diagnosis

Conditions that may present similarly include:

• Shoulder impingement
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis

Treatment

Treatment options vary based on the severity of the tear:

• Non-surgical: Physical therapy, medications such as NSAIDs, and corticosteroid injections.
• Surgical: Arthroscopic surgery or open repair for severe cases.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Strengthening exercises: Focused on the rotator cuff and shoulder muscles.
• Proper technique: In sports and occupational activities to avoid overuse injuries.

Complications

Potential complications from a rotator cuff tear include:

• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Arthritis in the shoulder joint

See Also

• Shoulder impingement
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Frozen shoulder