Rotator Cuff Tear
What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint. These structures work together to stabilize the shoulder and allow for controlled lifting, rotating, and reaching motions. A rotator cuff tear refers to a disruption in one or more of these tendons, either from injury or degeneration. The tear may be partial (where the tendon is damaged but not fully severed) or full-thickness (where the tendon is completely torn).
Tears are most commonly seen in the supraspinatus tendon, though any of the four tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, teres minor) can be affected.
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Causes and Risk Factors
Rotator cuff tears can result from:
- Acute injury (e.g., lifting something heavy, falling on an outstretched arm)
- Repetitive overhead activity (common in athletes and laborers)
- Degenerative wear and tear over time, especially in people over age 40
Additional risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Poor posture or scapular mechanics
- Weak shoulder stabilizer muscles
- Family history of rotator cuff problems
Symptoms
- Pain in the shoulder, especially at night or when lying on the affected side
- Weakness with overhead movements or lifting
- Limited range of motion
- Clicking or cracking sensation during motion
- Difficulty reaching behind the back
- In more severe cases, inability to lift the arm without assistance
Diagnosis
- Physical examination with strength and motion testing
- X-rays to assess bone alignment and rule out arthritis
- MRI or ultrasound to visualize the extent and location of the tendon tear
- Special tests (e.g., Drop Arm Test, Empty Can Test) performed during exam
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Activity modification to avoid aggravating movements
- NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and pain
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve shoulder mechanics
- Corticosteroid injections may be considered for temporary pain relief
Many partial tears and degenerative full-thickness tears can be managed successfully without surgery, especially in older or less active individuals.
Surgical Treatment
- Recommended for:
- Acute full-thickness tears in younger or active patients
- Tears causing significant weakness or loss of function
- Failure of conservative treatment over 3–6 months
- Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair:
- Minimally invasive
- Uses sutures and anchors to reattach torn tendons
- In some cases, tendon transfers or shoulder replacement may be necessary for massive, irreparable tears
Recovery Outlook
- Non-surgical recovery may take 3 to 6 months with structured rehab
- Post-surgical recovery:
- Sling immobilization for several weeks
- Physical therapy begins soon after to restore range of motion
- Strengthening starts after healing phase
- Full return to activity typically takes 4 to 6 months, depending on the severity of the tear and healing response
Why Kerlan Jobe Institute?
The shoulder specialists at Kerlan Jobe Institute are nationally recognized for their expertise in rotator cuff repair and rehabilitation. Whether through conservative management or advanced arthroscopic surgery, our team provides personalized care to help each patient regain strength, motion, and confidence in their shoulder.
Getting You Back in Motion
Surgery is just the beginning. How do you heal, move, and feel when all is said and done?
From NHL and NBA players to weekend warriors, our goal is the same: getting you back to doing what you love.
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“Dr. Kvitne operated on my shoulder 3 years ago and I had a perfect recovery and no problems since and I do not see a scar. He is kind with a great bedside manor and a highly skilled surgeon.”
Dr. Kharrazi truly got me back on my feet—literally.
One year ago, I tore several ligaments in my knee, and now I’m able to do the things I enjoy again.
His expertise, knowledge, and confidence are what made me choose him as my surgeon, and I will always be grateful to him and his entire team. Rudy, his assistant; Norma, who was always so prompt with all of my emails; and Blanca, who helped with forms—each of them made a difference. I can’t thank them enough for being there with me every step of the way.
I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Kvitne
“My experience with Dr Kvitne was amazing he is a outstanding Doctor what a talented man he is my knee was in such bad shape he did not have much to work with but he got in there and fixed me up there was so much that had to be repaired Dr Kvitne with his knowledge and experience repaired my knee so nicely done I have had knee surgery before but never like this I can’t say enough good things about Dr Kvitne awesome human being as well as a awesome excellent Doctor!!”
Dr. Kharrazi gave me my mobility back
After 2 knee surgeries with other Orthopedics I must say that Dr. Kharrazi is a miracle worker. I have my mobility back and my pain level is so greatly improved. Thanks Dr. K!
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Kerlan-Jobe provides comprehensive orthopaedic care for patients seeking expert treatment for sports injuries, joint pain, and mobility limitations. We offers specialized experience and a patient-first approach designed to support lasting results.
Contact the office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.