What are rotator cuff tears?
Rotator cuff tears are a common injury that affects the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and enabling various arm movements. When one or more of these tendons tear, it can result in a rotator cuff tear.
What causes a rotator cuff tear?
Rotator cuff tears can occur due to acute injuries, such as a fall or lifting a heavy object, or as a result of degenerative changes and wear and tear over time.
There are two main types of rotator cuff tears:
- Partial tears: In a partial tear, the tendon is damaged but not completely severed. This type of tear may not disrupt normal shoulder function entirely.
- Full-thickness tears: Full-thickness tears, also known as complete tears, occur when the tendon is completely torn away from the bone. This can significantly impact shoulder function and cause pain and weakness.
What are symptoms of a rotator cuff tear?
The main signs and symptoms of a rotator cuff tear can include:
- Shoulder pain: This pain is often felt deep within the shoulder and can be persistent, particularly at night or when performing overhead activities.
- Weakness: You may experience weakness in the affected shoulder, making it challenging to lift or rotate the arm.
- Limited range of motion: A rotator cuff tear can restrict the movement of the shoulder joint, making it difficult to perform tasks like reaching behind the back or raising the arm overhead.
- Shoulder stiffness: Some individuals may experience stiffness and reduced flexibility in the shoulder joint.
How is a rotator cuff tear treated?
If you suspect a rotator cuff tear, it is important to consult a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist or a sports medicine physician. They will conduct a physical examination, review your medical history, and may order imaging tests, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the tear.
Treatment options for rotator cuff tears depend on several factors, including the size and location of the tear, the individual's age and activity level, and the duration and severity of symptoms. Non-surgical treatments may include rest, physical therapy exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles, pain management, and activity modification.
In cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief or for large, full-thickness tears, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options can involve repairing the torn tendon through arthroscopic or open surgical techniques, depending on the specifics of the tear.
What is recovery like from a rotator cuff tear?
Recovery from a rotator cuff tear can be a gradual process, and rehabilitation is an essential part of the treatment. Physical therapy helps restore shoulder strength, flexibility, and function. It is important to follow the healthcare professional's recommendations and instructions for recovery and rehabilitation to optimize outcomes.
Ask your primary care doctor for a referral to an orthopaedic surgeon or book an appointment online.