Rotator Cuff Tear: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

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A rotator cuff tear is a common shoulder injury that can cause significant pain and limit your ability to move your arm. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for rotator cuff injuries, including both non-surgical and surgical approaches.

At JIS Orthopedics, our expert team specializes in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff tears, in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH. Contact us today to schedule a consultation! 

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a group of four rotator cuff muscles and rotator cuff tendons that surround the shoulder joint, helping to stabilize and move the arm in space. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons become damaged or detached from the upper arm bone (humerus).

Rotator cuff tears can be classified into two main types:

  • Partial rotator cuff tear – The tendon is damaged but not completely torn off the bone.
  • Full-thickness tear – The tendon is torn completely away from the bone.
    • A full-thickness incomplete tear is when only a small part of the tendon is detached from the bone
    • A full-thickness complete tear is when a tendon is completely detached from the bone. 
 

In some cases, a torn rotator cuff can worsen over time, leading to chronic rotator cuff pain and limited mobility.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

A rotator cuff injury can result from various factors, including:

  • Repetitive use – Overuse of the shoulder in activities like sports, manual labor, or frequent overhead movements can weaken the tendons over time.
  • Aging – As we age, the blood supply to the rotator cuff tendons decreases, making them more susceptible to injury.
  • Trauma – A sudden injury, such as falling on an outstretched arm or lifting something too heavy, can cause an acute torn rotator cuff.
  • Degenerative changes – Bone spurs or arthritis in the shoulder joint can contribute to cuff tears by irritating the tendons.

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear

A rotator cuff tear can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Shoulder pain that worsens at night or when lying on the affected shoulder
  • Pain and arm weakness, making it difficult to lift or rotate the arm
  • A crackling sensation or clicking sound when moving the shoulder
  • Loss of range of motion in the arm
 

If left untreated, a rotator cuff injury can lead to chronic pain and a greater risk of a more severe cuff tear.

How Are Rotator Cuff Injuries Diagnosed?

To diagnose a rotator cuff injury, a specialist will conduct:

  • A physical exam – Assessing pain levels, range of motion, and strength in the affected shoulder.
  • Imaging tests – X-rays can check for bone spurs or arthritis, while MRI or ultrasound can confirm the extent of a partial tear or full rotator cuff tear.
 

If you suspect a rotator cuff tear, early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes and help prevent further damage.

How Are Rotator Cuff Injuries Treated?

Treatment for a rotator cuff tear depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s lifestyle. Some people recover with non-surgical treatments, while others may require rotator cuff surgery to restore full function.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Rotator Cuff Injuries

For mild to moderate rotator cuff injuries, non-surgical options may effectively relieve pain and restore movement. These include:

  • Rest and activity modification – Avoiding overhead movements and heavy lifting can help reduce strain on the shoulder joint.
  • Physical therapy – Strengthening the rotator cuff muscles can improve stability and prevent further injury.
  • Anti-inflammatory medications – NSAIDs help reduce swelling and alleviate rotator cuff pain.
  • Steroid injections – Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief for persistent pain.
 

If symptoms do not improve with conservative treatments, rotator cuff surgery may be necessary.

Surgical Treatment for Rotator Cuff Tears

Surgery may be recommended for large or severe rotator cuff tears that do not respond to other treatments. Common surgical procedures include:

  • Arthroscopic repair – A minimally invasive approach where small instruments are used to reattach the rotator cuff tendons.
  • Open surgery – In cases of extensive damage, open surgery may be required to fully repair the torn rotator cuff.
 

If you’re dealing with persistent shoulder pain, consider consulting a specialist to determine if rotator cuff surgery is the right solution for you.

Get Expert Care for Rotator Cuff Tears

At JIS Orthopedics, we provide expert care for rotator cuff injuries, helping patients regain mobility and relieve pain. If you’re struggling with shoulder pain, visit our shoulder specialists to explore treatment options tailored to your needs. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward recovery!

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicholas Walla

Get Mobile Again

If you are experiencing pain in your shoulder and suspect you have a rotator cuff tear, schedule an appointment with JIS Orthopedics today. We have offices conveniently located in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH. Our orthopedic surgeons can give you peace of mind by providing you with an accurate diagnosis of your shoulder pain.

 

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