Rotator Cuff Tear

Rotator Cuff Tear

• can be torn due to an acute traumatic incident or as a result of a chronic degenerative pathology

• patients 50 and older susceptible to tears due to chronic degenerative pathology

• classified as partial thickness or full thickness

Etiology:

• intrinsic factors include impaired blood supply to the tendon, resulting in degeneration

• extrinsic factors include trauma, repetitive microtrauma, and postural abnormalities

Signs and symptoms:

• arm positioned in internal rotation and adduction

• point tenderness at the greater tubercle and acromion

• marked limitation in shoulder flexion and abduction with upper trapezius recruitment evident

• increased tone in anterior shoulder structures

Treatment:

• RICE, NSAIDs, and analgesics

• primary focus - prevent adhesive capsulitis and strengthen UE musculature

Surgical management:

• arthroscopic, mini-open with arthroscopic assist or a traditional open approach

• immobilized in a sling (4-6 weeks)

• Return to functional activities requiring dynamic overhead motion occurs in 9-12 months