What is a rotator cuff tear?

A rotator cuff tear is a common and often painful injury that affects the shoulder, specifically the rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that provide essential support and mobility to the shoulder joint. This injury can result from various causes, leading to a range of symptoms that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Understanding what a rotator cuff tear is, its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments is essential for both healthcare professionals and individuals looking to manage or prevent this condition.

What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

A rotator cuff tear is a musculoskeletal injury characterized by the partial or complete disruption of one or more tendons in the rotator cuff, a critical structure in the shoulder. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis, which work together to support the shoulder joint's movement and stability.

This intricate system of tendons and muscles connects the upper arm bone (humerus) to the shoulder blade (scapula) and plays a vital role in various shoulder movements, including raising and rotating the arm, lifting objects, and facilitating everyday activities. When the tendons within the rotator cuff sustain damage, they may weaken or tear, impairing the shoulder's functionality and leading to discomfort, pain, and limited range of motion.