Orthopaedics · Bones, joints and movement

Rotator cuff tear

Understand an injury to shoulder tendons, its assessment and recovery options.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

A rotator cuff tear affects one or more tendons that stabilise the shoulder and help lift and rotate the arm.

Side or night pain, weakness, difficulty lifting or rotating the arm and sometimes crepitus may occur.

A tear may follow a fall or sudden load, or develop gradually with age and repeated overhead activity.

History and examination assess strength, movement and painful actions while considering other causes of shoulder pain.

Ultrasound or MRI can define the size and depth of a tear; X-rays assess bones and the joint.

Many tears improve without surgery, but pain or weakness may persist, particularly with full-thickness tears.

Activity adjustment, pain management and physiotherapy are usual; surgery is discussed according to trauma, tear pattern, function and goals.

Seek assessment if pain persists, disrupts sleep or strength and arm elevation decline.

After injury, sudden inability to lift the arm, deformity, a cold or numb hand, or severe pain needs urgent assessment.

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.