Rotator Cuff Tears: What Patients Should Know
Your shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in your body, and that mobility comes from the rotator cuff — a group of muscles and tendons that help lift and rotate your arm. When the rotator cuff is injured or torn, it can cause pain, weakness, and difficulty using the shoulder for everyday activities.
This article explains what a rotator cuff tear is, common symptoms, and treatment options. It also includes links to trusted video resources so you can see exactly how the shoulder works and what treatment may involve.
What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
Causes
Rotator cuff tears may result from:
- Acute injury – such as falling on an outstretched arm or lifting something too heavy.
- Degenerative changes – wear and tear over time, especially in patients over 40.
- Overuse – repetitive overhead motions, such as throwing or painting, that stress the tendons.
Symptoms
- Pain when lifting or lowering the arm
- Weakness in the shoulder
- Clicking or popping when moving the arm
- Trouble sleeping on the affected side
Diagnosis
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the tear, your age, activity level, and goals. Options include:
- Non-surgical care – rest, activity modification, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or steroid injections.
- Surgical repair – arthroscopic or open procedures to reattach the tendon to the bone. Surgery is often considered if pain persists or function is limited despite non-surgical care.
Educational Videos
To help you better understand rotator cuff tears and treatment options, here are some trusted resources:
- OrthoPedia – Rotator Cuff Tear Animation (Video)
- OrthoPedia – Rotator Cuff Learning Pathway
- AAOS OrthoInfo – Rotator Cuff Tears
These short videos and articles show how the rotator cuff works, what happens during a tear, and what surgery looks like.
