Rotator Cuff Tear

A rotator cuff tear is a condition where one or more of the tendons in the rotator cuff, a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint, are torn. The rotator cuff allows for a wide range of arm movements and is crucial for shoulder stability.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears:

1. Partial Tear: The tendon is damaged but not completely severed.
2. Complete Tear (Full-Thickness Tear): The tendon is fully detached from the bone, often leaving a hole or gap.

Symptoms:

• Pain, especially when lifting the arm or performing overhead activities.
• Weakness in the shoulder.
• Limited range of motion.
• A clicking or popping sensation when moving the shoulder.
• Night pain, particularly when lying on the affected shoulder.

Diagnosis:

• Physical examination to assess pain, strength, and range of motion.
• Imaging test:

• X-rays: To rule out other conditions like bone spurs or fractures.
• MRI/Ultrasound: To confirm the tear's size, location, and severity.

Treatment Options:

1. Non-Surgical:

• Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the condition.
• Ice/Heat Therapy: To reduce pain and inflammation.
• Medications: NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) to relieve pain.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen shoulder muscles and improve range of motion.
• Steroid Injections: Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pain, typically used if conservative treatments are ineffective.

2. Surgical:

• Recommended for large tears, persistent symptoms, or cases where function is severely impaired:

• Arthroscopic Repair: Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and instruments to reattach the tendon.
• Open Surgery: Larger incisions may be needed for more complex repairs.
• Tendon Transfer: In cases where the tear is irreparable, a nearby tendon may be used to restore function.
• Shoulder Replacement: For severe cases with joint damage (e.g., rotator cuff arthropathy).

3. Rehabilitation:

• Post-surgical pysical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and function.
• Gradual progression from passive to active exercises.

Prevention:

• Avoid repetitive overhead activities.
• Maintain shoulder strength and flexibility through regular exercise.
• Use proper techniques for sports or heavy lifting.

Early treatment improves outcomes, particularly for acute tears, while degenerative tears may require longer rehabilitation.