The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and allow the arm to lift and rotate. These muscles play a crucial role in daily activities such as reaching overhead, lifting objects, and performing sports movements.
Rotator cuff tears are common, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. They often occur gradually due to wear and tear of the tendons, but can also happen after trauma such as a fall or sudden lifting injury.
Degeneration of the rotator cuff tendons over time is the most frequent cause of a tear. As the tendon weakens, even a minor injury such as slipping in the bathroom or lifting a heavy object may cause a full thickness tear.
In athletes or active individuals, repetitive overhead activity can also lead to rotator cuff damage.
Patients with rotator cuff tear commonly experience pain along the side of the shoulder and upper arm. The pain often worsens when lifting the arm or performing overhead activities.
Many patients also notice weakness in the shoulder and difficulty raising the arm above shoulder level.
Diagnosis of rotator cuff tears is typically made through clinical examination and imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI scans.
Imaging helps determine whether the tear is partial or full thickness and assists in planning the most appropriate treatment.
Partial tears may often be managed with a structured shoulder rehabilitation program focusing on strengthening and restoring movement.
However, full thickness rotator cuff tears usually require surgical repair. Without repair, the tear may enlarge over time and shoulder function may deteriorate.
Modern rotator cuff repair is commonly performed using arthroscopic keyhole surgery. Small incisions are used to insert a camera and specialized instruments into the shoulder joint.
The torn tendon is repaired using specialized suture anchors which securely reattach the tendon to the bone.
Patients usually go home the day after surgery. Early rehabilitation helps restore shoulder motion and strength.
Most patients return to light work within a week. Athletes and individuals involved in heavy physical activity may require a longer rehabilitation period before returning to full activity.
