Rotator Cuff Tears: Symptoms and Treatment

Rotator cuff tears are a common source of shoulder pain and dysfunction, particularly among athletes and older adults.  

The rotator cuff comprises four muscles and their associated tendons, which stabilise the shoulder joint and facilitate its wide range of motion. 

A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons become damaged or completely severed, leading to pain, weakness, and limited shoulder mobility.

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Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Acute Injuries

Rotator cuff tears can result from acute injuries, such as a fall, lifting heavy objects, or a sudden jerking motion. These tears are often accompanied by immediate, intense pain and a sudden loss of shoulder function.

Degenerative Changes

More commonly, rotator cuff tears develop gradually due to degenerative changes associated with aging. Factors contributing to degenerative tears include repetitive stress, reduced blood supply to the tendons, and the presence of bone spurs that can rub against the tendons, causing wear and tear.

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of developing rotator cuff tears, including age (more common in individuals over 40), participation in sports or occupations involving repetitive shoulder movements, and a family history of shoulder problems.

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Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tears

Pain

Pain is the most common symptom of a rotator cuff tear. It may be felt in the front of the shoulder and radiate down the arm. The pain typically worsens with shoulder movements, particularly when lifting the arm overhead or lying on the affected side.

Weakness

Individuals with rotator cuff tears often experience shoulder weakness, making it difficult to perform everyday activities such as combing hair, reaching for objects on high shelves, or lifting items.

Limited Range of Motion

A torn rotator cuff can significantly restrict the shoulder's range of motion, leading to stiffness and difficulty moving the arm in certain directions.

Other Symptoms

Additional symptoms may include a crackling sensation when moving the shoulder, swelling, and tenderness around the affected area.

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Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical Examination

A thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional is the first step in diagnosing a rotator cuff tear. The clinician will assess shoulder strength, range of motion, and specific movements that elicit pain.

Imaging Studies

Imaging studies are essential for confirming the diagnosis and determining the extent of the tear. Common imaging modalities include:

Orthobullets

Orthobullets is an invaluable online resource for healthcare professionals that offers detailed information on the diagnosis and management of rotator cuff tears. It provides evidence-based guidelines, clinical decision-making tools, and educational materials to enhance patient care.

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Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears

Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of management for rotator cuff tears, particularly for partial tears or patients who are not candidates for surgery.

Rest and Activity Modification

Resting the shoulder and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can help reduce pain and inflammation. Activity modification may involve using the opposite arm for certain tasks and avoiding overhead movements.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the non-surgical management of rotator cuff tears. A tailored exercise program can strengthen the shoulder muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall shoulder function.

Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to provide temporary relief from severe pain.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery may be necessary for full-thickness rotator cuff tears, tears that do not respond to conservative treatment, or when significant shoulder dysfunction persists.

Arthroscopic Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the use of a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments to repair the torn tendon. This technique offers the advantages of smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, and faster recovery times compared to traditional open surgery.

Open Surgery

In some cases, open surgery may be required to repair large or complex tears. This involves a larger incision to directly visualize and repair the damaged tendon.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from rotator cuff tear surgery typically involves a period of immobilization followed by a structured rehabilitation program. Physical therapy is essential for restoring shoulder strength and mobility. The overall recovery time varies depending on the extent of the tear, the type of surgery performed, and the patient's adherence to the rehabilitation protocol.

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Rotator Cuff Tear Recovery Time

The recovery time for a rotator cuff tear varies based on several factors, including the severity of the tear, the treatment approach, and the patient's overall health. Generally, non-surgical treatments may require several weeks to months of rehabilitation. Surgical recovery can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months, with some patients requiring up to a year for full recovery.