The rotator cuff is a group of tendons in the shoulder that helps stabilize the shoulder. The supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor muscles form the rotator cuff. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the tendons of the cuff can weaken and be prone to fraying or damage, especially with age. This can lead to shoulder pain, decreased movement, and swelling in the joint . In most cases, conservative treatments are required; however, in some cases, surgery may be necessary. Patients, especially the elderly and those who play high-intensity sports, need to understand the causes of cuff tears or fraying.
3 common causes of rotator cuff tear
Injury
Work injuries that involve a lot of overhead lifts, sports injuries that involve excessive movement of the upper arm, and traumatic injuries , such as a car accident, can cause rotator cuff tears. Fraying occurs due to excessive force on the cuff that increases stress on the tendons and causes tears to the tendon fibers. This type of injury usually results in the acute onset of pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the shoulder.
Aging
Experts say that elderly patients are at higher risk for a rotator cuff tear . This occurs because wear and tear on the shoulder over time can weaken the tendons in the cuff and make them more prone to fraying or breaking in the future.
The most common tear is that of the supraspinatus. In this case, conservative treatments are generally recommended unless the patient requires use of the injured shoulder, particularly for overhead movements. If a patient can complete the normal functions of daily living, surgery is generally not required. However, patients and their physicians must devise an appropriate treatment plan to completely relieve rotator cuff tear symptoms.
Shoulder impingement
Shoulder impingement is a common cause of a rotator cuff tear. Over time, bone spurs can form under the shoulder blade and rub against the rotator cuff tendons, especially when the arm is elevated. Prolonged rubbing of the cuff tendons can weaken them and cause them to tear, increasing the risk of tears in the future. Rotator cuff tendons have the ability to heal on their own with rest , so conservative treatments for shoulder impingement are preferred. If there are large bone spurs on the patient's shoulder, surgery may be necessary to remove these bone spurs to prevent future impingement. This procedure is called acromioplasty and the risks and benefits of this procedure should be discussed between the patient and the doctor.
