Rotator cuff tears

Need to know

• What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear? icon plus

  Some people may have a rotator cuff tear and not experience any symptoms. Others may experience acute pain and disability. Symptoms may include:

  • pain in the shoulder area
  • weakness when lifting or rotating your arm
  • a cracking, popping or grating sensation when lifting your arm in certain positions
  • neck pain may accompany shoulder pain

• Diagnosing a rotator cuff tear icon plus

  Your consultant will perform a physical assessment to diagnose a rotator cuff tear. This will involve examining the particular movements of your shoulder and assessing it for pain and weakness. You may also need:

  • X-rays. This will not show the tears in the rotator cuff but may reveal associated conditions.
  • An ultrasound scan. Your consultant will be able to examine your muscles, ligaments and soft tissue using this high frequency sound wave scan.
  • An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan. An MRI is able to detect bones as well as muscles, ligaments and soft tissue.

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  Treatment depends on many factors including symptoms, the age and size of the tear, occupational and lifestyle requirements. Possible treatment options include:

  • Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications to help ease the pain
  • Steroid injections to reduce the swelling in the shoulder and act as a painkiller.
  • Physiotherapy. This may include regular treatments with a physiotherapist as well as exercises you can perform regularly at home to reduce pain and build up strength.
  • Surgery, such as a rotator cuff repair. If your rotator cuff tear is large, or smaller tears do not respond to the above treatments, your consultant may recommend surgical intervention.