Rotator Cuff Tear
The rotator cuff is comprised of four muscles and several tendons that surround and protect the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff attaches the upper arm bone (humerus) to the shoulder joint, allowing the arm to lift and rotate. It is injured when the tendons tear. It usually appears in older people whose muscles and tendons have lost elasticity.
What Causes a Rotator Cuff Tear?
A rotator cuff tear can be caused by a single blunt trauma. It may occur at the same time as another shoulder injury such as a dislocation or separation. It also can be caused by overuse over a period time in a sport or other activity that requires an overhead motion (basketball, tennis, weight lifting).
What Are the Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear?
- Pain when lifting the arm or lowering it from a lifted position
- Cracking sound when moving the shoulder
- Weakness in lifting or rotating arm
- If severe, limited or loss of motion
Seek emergency medical care if you are unable to move both shoulders.
How Is a Rotator Cuff Tear Evaluated?
Your physician will conduct a physical exam to see if there is tenderness or a deformity, and will test range-of-motion and strength of the affected arm. X-rays, ultrasound or MRI may be ordered.
How Is a Rotator Cuff Tear Treated?
Self Care
- Stop activity overhead motions
- Ice injured area several times a day for 20 minutes
- Use a sling to immobilize the arm and shoulder
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs)
Nonsurgical
- Corticosteroid injection
- Physical therapy
- Strengthening exercises
Surgical
If the nonsurgical approach doesn't improve symptoms after six months, your physician may recommend surgery. The type of surgery depends on the extent and location of the tear.
- Partial tear: Remove degenerated tissue, smooth and clean remaining tissue
- Complete tear: Suture torn sides together.
- If tendon has torn away from the humerus, it will be reattached.
Surgery can be done arthroscopically. If the tear is severe, an open incision may be necessary. Surgery can be done on an outpatient basis.
After surgery, your arm will be immobilized in a sling or brace. For best results, you must commit to physical therapy after the sling or brace are removed for several months.
For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).