The rotator cuff is a group of tendons in the shoulder that help stabilize the shoulder. The supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor muscles form the rotator cuff. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the cuff tendons can become weak and prone to fraying or damage, especially with age. This can cause 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
All the work injuries involving a lot of overhead lifting, sports injuries that involve excessive movement of the upper arm and traumatic injuries, such as a car accident, can cause a rotator cuff tear. Fraying occurs due to excessive force on the cuff which increases stress on the tendons and causes tears of the tendon fibers. This type of injury typically results in the acute onset of pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the shoulder.
Aging
Experts say that elderly patients have a increased risk of rotator cuff tear. This occurs because the wear and tear of the shoulder over time can weaken the cuff tendons and make them more prone to fraying or tearing in the future.
The most common tear is that of the supraspinatus. In this case, conservative treatments are generally recommended unless the patient requires the use of the injured shoulder, particularly for overhead movement. If a patient can complete the normal functions of daily living, surgery is usually not required. However, patients and their doctors need to devise an appropriate treatment plan to completely alleviate the symptoms of rotator cuff tear.
shoulder impingement
Shoulder impingement is a common cause of a rotator cuff tear. Over time, they can form bone spurs 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 restTherefore, 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.