Rotator Cuff Tear

Rotator Cuff Tear – common source of shoulder pain typically in middle age to elderly patients as an end stage of impingement syndrome. Pain can occur from a sudden traumatic event, or gradually progress with worsening impingement syndrome.

Other shoulder problems such as AC joint arthritis, biceps tendon ruptures, or shoulder instabilities are commonly associated. Signs/symptoms are similar to impingement syndrome but can be much worse, including pain at rest.

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the level of pain and expectations of the patient. Patients with tolerable pain can be managed with conservative treatment including steroid injections, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and activity modifications.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is for pain unresponsive to conservative treatment or severely limited function and includes arthroscopic or open rotator cuff repair. Large tears may require tissue grafts to reinforce repairs. Of note, some extremely large chronic tears may not be repairable.