Rotator cuff tear is a common injury that affects the shoulder and causes pain, weakness and decreased mobility. This condition can significantly affect a person's daily activities and quality of life.
What is a rotator cuff tear?
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing a wide range of motion. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons tear, either partially or completely. This tear can occur due to a variety of factors and results in pain and reduced functionality.
Rotator cuff tear: the causes
Rupture of the rotator cuff can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Acute injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm or lifting an object that is heavy enough, can cause tears.
- Degeneration. The wear and tear that comes with age is a common cause of rotator cuff tears, with the risk increasing as people get older. Repetitive strain and overuse from activities or occupations that require overhead movements can accelerate this degeneration
- Low blood supply. As we age, the blood supply to the rotator cuff tendons decreases, making it harder for the body to repair the damage to the tendon, which results in ruptures.
- Bony spurs: Hypertrophy of the bone on the underside of the acromion (the bony end of the shoulder) can rub against the rotator cuff tendon, leading to a rupture
Rotator cuff tear: the symptoms
The symptoms of a rotator cuff tear can vary depending on the severity and cause of the injury, but usually include:
- Pain, especially when raising the arm, coming down from a fully elevated position or when resting, especially at night.
- Weakness or difficulty in lifting objects or performing overhead activities.
- Reduced range of motion and difficulty in activities requiring arm rotation.
- Sensation of breaking or cracking when moving the shoulder in certain ways.
Diagnosis of rotator cuff tear
Diagnosis of rotator cuff tear usually involves taking a medical history, physical examination to evaluate pain, range of motion and muscle strength. X-rays, MRI or ultrasound may also be needed to visualise the extent of the tear and any associated conditions.
Treatment options
Treatment for a rotator cuff tear may include both conservative and surgical options, depending on the severity of the tear, overall health and the patient's activity level.
Non-surgical treatments
- Rest and activity modification: Avoiding painful activities and using a sling to rest the shoulder may be helpful.
- A physiotherapy programme, with exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and restore range of motion.
- Medication to reduce pain and swelling.
- PRP (platelet rich plasma) or cortisone injections, as needed, to reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgical treatments
Surgery may be necessary in the case of a complete rupture or if non-surgical treatments fail to produce the desired results. Surgical options include:
- Arthroscopic repair,a minimally invasive procedure to reconnect the torn tendon to the bone.
- Mini-Open repair. A more traditional approach with a slightly larger incision, usually for larger tears.
- Tendon transfer. If the ruptured tendon cannot be repaired, an adjacent tendon can be used to replace the damaged tendon.
Prevention tips for arthritis
Although not all rotator cuff tears can be prevented, the following tactics can reduce the risk:
- Regular exercises to strengthen shoulder and upper back muscles and maintain flexibility can help.
- Modify activities that require repetitive overhead movements or take frequent breaks.
- Improve your posture to reduce shoulder and rotator cuff strain.
- When lifting objects or performing activities above head level, use proper tactics to avoid injury.
A rotator cuff tear is a significant injury that can seriously affect a person's ability to perform daily tasks With timely and appropriate care, patients can fully recover from a rotator cuff tear and return to their normal activities.
To learn more about the treatment options for rotator cuff tear of the shoulder, contact us at 211 - 4057040 or 6943903343 (secretary) or 6949196061 (doctor) and orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
