The Rotator Cuff

The rotator cuff is a series of tendons and muscles that surround the shoulder. These muscles help secure the shoulder in place.  They also help you move your shoulder, and provide strength to your upper extremity.

Rotator cuff injuries are quite common, and they can cause pain in the shoulder.  The rotator cuff can tear as a result of a sudden injury or trauma, or the tendon(s) can degenerate over time due to repetitive wear and tear. 

Symptoms

• pain- either at rest or with activity
• weakness- with motion or when lifting
• a grinding sensation in the shoulder with use

Your visit with your doctor

When you see your doctor, you will first have an x-ray done of your affected shoulder, if one has not already been taken. You be asked for a description of how your pain began, and about your current symptoms.  You may be asked what kind of treatments you have already tried, and if they have worked. Your shoulder will be examined, and your range of motion will be assessed.  Your doctor may order an MRI to better evaluate your rotator cuff tendons.  An MRI is the definitive imaging study to visualize the rotator cuff tendons.

Treatment

There are different treatment options for rotator cuff tears.  Fortunately, not all rotator cuff tears require surgery.  In fact, most people with rotator cuff tears are able to relieve their pain with therapy alone.  With the right kind of therapy, most people experience at least improvement of symptoms in about 2 weeks. 

Depending on the nature of the injury, and the extent of the tear, you may be a candidate to have surgery to fix the torn tendon.  Surgery involves repairing the tendon back to the bone.  The repair can be performed either through arthroscopic surgery (through a series of small incisions, and the use of a tiny camera and small instruments), or through a mini-open incision (about an 1.5 inch incision on the side of the shoulder). Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of each procedure.