Rotator Cuff Tears

Advanced diagnosis and treatment for rotator cuff tears from physical therapy to minimally invasive repair.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that stabilize the shoulder and enable arm movement. Rotator cuff tears are among the most common causes of shoulder pain and weakness, particularly in adults over 40. Dr. Joshi provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for all types of rotator cuff pathology.

Tears can be partial (affecting only part of the tendon thickness) or full-thickness (complete tears through the entire tendon). They may result from acute injury, such as a fall or lifting something heavy, or from gradual degeneration over time.

Without treatment, rotator cuff tears can worsen over time, leading to increased weakness, muscle atrophy, and potentially arthritis. Early evaluation allows for optimal treatment planning.

Causes & Risk Factors

Degenerative changes with aging
Acute injury from falls or lifting
Repetitive overhead activities
Bone spurs causing tendon impingement
Decreased blood supply to tendons with age
Sports injuries

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of rotator cuff tears include:

Pain with overhead activities
Night pain, especially when lying on the affected side
Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
Crackling sensation with shoulder movement
Difficulty reaching behind the back
Pain that radiates down the arm
Limited range of motion

Treatment Options

Treatment for rotator cuff tears depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

Rest and activity modification
Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
Anti-inflammatory medications
Corticosteroid injections for pain relief
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all rotator cuff tears require surgery?

No. Many partial tears and some full-thickness tears can be managed with physical therapy and injections. Surgery is recommended when conservative treatment fails or for acute traumatic tears in active individuals.

How do I know if I have a rotator cuff tear?

Symptoms include pain with overhead activities, weakness, and night pain. Diagnosis is confirmed with physical examination and imaging, typically MRI, which shows the tear size and location.

Can a torn rotator cuff heal on its own?

Partial tears may heal with conservative treatment, though they rarely return to normal. Full-thickness tears do not heal on their own and may enlarge over time.

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