Rotator Cuff Tear, What Is It?

Rotator cuff tear is a pathology that affects the shoulder very frequently in middle-aged people. It is one of the leading causes of shoulder pain today.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that anchor to the bones of the shoulder. They are responsible for ensuring that this joint remains stable and can perform all movements properly.

Unfortunately, the shoulder is a part of the body that tends to suffer and cause a lot of discomfort. In fact, an injury to this area is very disabling and painful. Therefore, in this article we explain everything you need to know about a rotator cuff tear.

What is a rotator cuff tear?

Rotator cuff tear is a disease that affects approximately 4 out of 100,000 people a year. It is important to note that its incidence increases with age ; in fact, the majority of people who suffer from it are between the ages of 50 and 60.

This is because injuries to this joint are more related to the passage of time and deterioration. Unlike other joint pathologies, blows rarely cause this problem.

Most cases of rotator cuff tear occur in people who are continually performing shoulder movements in their work or profession. For example, it tends to appear in athletes, carpenters, or painters.

What is the rotator cuff?

As we have already mentioned, the rotator cuff (or rotator cuff) is a set of muscles and tendons. They all surround the joint and hold the upper arm bone (humerus) in place.

They also allow for proper arm movements, such as its rotation and elevation. These muscles are small, but they make movements precise and coordinated. The muscles are:

• Supraspinatus.
• Subscapular.
• Infraspinous.
• Minor round.

Of all of them, the one that tends to injure the most is the supraspinatus tendon. This is responsible for the lateral elevation of the arm so, when injured, this movement is painful and difficult.

What are the causes of rotator cuff tear?

Normally, rotator cuff tear occurs from wear and tear on the tendon due to repeated use. For example, when lifting heavy objects or keeping your arm elevated for a long time.

However, it can also happen from a sudden injury. It is less common, but sometimes a fall or a sudden movement can cause it. However, the risk factors most related to rotator cuff tear are:

• Age. As we have mentioned before, this injury mainly affects people between 50 and 60 years of age.
• Certain jobs, such as carpentry or construction. This is because they are professions in which repetitive movements are constantly performed.

• Engaging in sports such as tennis or baseball.
• Having had their own or family history.

What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear?

Symptoms appear based on the severity of the injury. Still, the predominant symptom is shoulder pain. Similarly, all movements of this joint are limited.

Some people often have trouble sleeping. In fact, it is almost impossible for them to sleep on that side. In addition, all grooming tasks such as combing, dressing or washing are becoming increasingly complicated.

If a rotator cuff tear is not treated in time, it can lead to serious complications. By not being able to move the arm properly, it can end up weakened and unable to move. This also makes the treatment slightly complicated. If this joint is immobilized too much it can end up causing a chronic deterioration of the shoulder.

How is it diagnosed?

First, to diagnose a rotator cuff tear, your doctor will perform a physical exam. During it, you will examine the ability to move, strength, and pain that occurs in the joint.

On the other hand, complementary tests such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging are usually used. Ultrasound allows the tendons and muscles to be evaluated while movement occurs. Plus, it’s an affordable, non-invasive test.

In conclusion

Rotator cuff tear is a pathology that frequently affects middle-aged people. It is a very disabling injury, so it is important that, if you have any of the symptoms, you go to the doctor as soon as possible.