The shoulder is a complex joint formed by three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). The rotator cuff consists of four muscles that come together as tendons, forming a protective covering around the head of the humerus. These tendons attach the humerus to the scapula, enabling arm movement and rotation. A lubricating sac, called the bursa, cushions the tendons between them and the acromion (bone on top of the shoulder).

Tears can affect any of the four rotator cuff tendons, with the supraspinatus being the most commonly affected. Tears can be classified based on their severity:

• Partial Tear: The tear only partially extends through the tendon’s thickness, leaving it attached to the bone but weakened.
• Full-Thickness Tear: The tendon is completely detached from the bone. This can be further categorized as:
  • Incomplete: Only a portion of the tendon is detached.
  • Complete: The entire tendon is detached.

Rotator cuff tears can be caused by:

• Injury: This typically occurs from a sudden fall or lifting heavy objects with improper form.
• Degeneration: Over time, the tendons weaken and wear down due to repetitive stress or age-related changes in blood supply.

Common symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include:

• Pain, often worse at night or when lying on the affected shoulder
• Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
• Difficulty performing overhead activities
• Creaking or popping sensation in the shoulder with movement

To diagnose a rotator cuff tear, a healthcare professional will perform a physical examination and may order additional tests, such as:

• X-rays: To rule out other conditions like fractures.
• Ultrasound: To visualize the soft tissues like tendons and bursa.
• MRI Scan: To provide detailed images of the rotator cuff and surrounding structures.

Treatment options for rotator cuff tears vary depending on the severity and cause:

Non-operative Management:

This is usually the first line of treatment for degenerative tears and involves:

• Rest: Reducing activities that aggravate the tear.
• Pain medication: Over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve range of motion.
• Corticosteroid injections: To reduce inflammation and pain in the short term.

Arthroscopic surgery might be considered for:

• Acute tears: When symptoms persist despite non-operative measures.
• Large, complete tears: When significant functional limitations are present.

Understanding rotator cuff tears and their potential causes can help individuals recognize symptoms and seek timely medical attention. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for optimal recovery and preventing long-term complications.

This information is intended for general knowledge only and should not be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment specific to your situation.