Rotator Cuff Tears

A rotator cuff tear is a common shoulder injury that involves a tear in one or more of the tendons of the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and enable arm movement. This injury can result from acute trauma, repetitive overhead activities, or degeneration over time. Rotator cuff tears can cause significant pain and weakness in the shoulder, affecting daily activities and overall arm function.
Common Symptoms
  • Pain at rest and at night, particularly if lying on the affected shoulder
  • Pain when lifting and lowering the arm or with specific movements
  • Weakness in the shoulder and arm
  • A crackling sensation or sound when moving the shoulder
  • Limited range of motion in the shoulder
  • High Prevalence: Rotator cuff tears are a leading cause of shoulder pain and disability, especially in adults over 40.
  • Types of Tears: Rotator cuff tears can be partial (where the tendon is damaged but not completely severed) or full-thickness (where the tendon is completely torn from the bone).
  • Repetitive Motion Risk: Occupations and sports that involve repetitive overhead movements, such as painting or baseball, increase the risk of rotator cuff tears.
  • Surgical Advances: Arthroscopic surgery has made rotator cuff repair less invasive, leading to quicker recovery times and improved outcomes.
Rotator cuff tears can result from acute injuries, such as falling on an outstretched arm, or from chronic wear and tear due to repetitive overhead activities or degenerative changes associated with aging.
Diagnosis involves a physical examination, review of symptoms, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to assess the extent of the tear and rule out other conditions.
Treatment options include rest, ice, physical therapy, pain relief medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroid injections. In severe cases or when conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the torn tendon.
Recovery varies depending on the severity of the tear and the treatment approach. Conservative treatments may result in improvement within a few weeks to months. Surgical recovery can take several months, with physical therapy playing a crucial role in restoring strength and mobility.
Preventative measures include avoiding repetitive overhead activities, using proper techniques during sports and physical activities, strengthening shoulder muscles, and taking breaks to rest the shoulder.

If you experience persistent shoulder pain, stiffness, swelling, or difficulty moving your shoulder, it is important to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Our Doctors that Specialize in Rotator Cuff Tears

Dr. Kyle A. Casadei
Dr. Allen R. Prince
Dr. Matthew R. Prince
Dr. Paul J. Siatczynski
Dr. Ryan M. Siwiec
Dr. Michael A. Yusaf

Center for Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine is a Michigan based, state-of-the-art Orthopedic facility. With Orthopedic offices in Auburn Hills, we’re able to serve our community with dedication and care. From young children to school students to our elderly population, we’re able to provide top notch Orthopedic care for necks, spines, knees, hips, joint and arthritis therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and more. Call us to see how our Orthopedic specialists can help you today!

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