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Rotator Cuff Tear
WHAT IS IT?
 The rotator cuff is a group of tendons that connects the four muscles of the upper shoulder to the bones. The strength of the cuff allows the muscles to lift and rotate the humerus (the bone of the upper arm). The tendons run under the acromion (part of the shoulder blade) where they are very vulnerable to being damaged. This can lead to a tear resulting in a painful, weak shoulder. A tear may result suddenly from a single traumatic event or develop gradually. When the tendons or muscles of the rotator cuff tear, the patient is no longer able to lift or rotate his or her arm with the same range of motion as before the injury and/or has significant pain associated with shoulder motion. The pain is also very common at night, often radiating down the arm.
As people age, it is normal for the rotator cuff tendon to wear and degrade, however only a small proportion of people develop pain and weakness that requires treatment.
CAUSES:
1. Injury, especially while trying to lift or catch a heavy object
2. Overuse, especially after a period of inactivity
3. Poor blood supply to an area of the cuff (increases with age)
4. Falling on an outstretched arm
5. A gradual weakening of the tendons of the shoulder, often associated with impingement
PREVENTION:
- Avoid excessive overhead activities.
- Strengthen your shoulders and do not try to play or work through the pain.
TREATMENT:
1. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications
2. Physiotherapy - keeps your shoulder strong and reduces pain and weakness
3. Cortisone steroid injections - reduces inflammation and control the pain
4. Surgery is required - If the tear follows an injury or if pain and weakness is not improved with injections & physiotherapy
Rotator Cuff Repair
 A complete rotator cuff tear will not heal.
Complete ruptures usually require surgery if your goal is to return your shoulder to optimal function.
A rotator cuff repair involves stitching the torn tendon back onto its attachment to the arm bone (Humerus). This may be performed either through keyhole surgery (Arthroscopy) or open surgery, using sutures and bone anchors
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