 Rotator
cuff tears are common in the adult population of people over 40. The rotator cuff
is made up of four muscles and their tendons, which act to hold the upper arm
(humerus) to the socket of the shoulder (glenoid fossa). The rotator cuff also
provides mobility and strength to the shoulder joint. Two sac-like structures,
called bursae, allow smooth gliding between the bone, muscle, and tendon. They
also cushion and protect the rotator-cuff structures from the upper part of the
scapula (the acromion).
Pain occuring in the front
of the shoulder that radiates down the side of your arm.
Gradual onset of pain is most common in the adult population. It is often caused
by repetitive overhead activity or by wear and degeneration of the tendon. Activities
involving reaching or lifting may bring about an onset of pain. At first the pain
may be mild and relieved by over-the-counter medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
Over time the pain may become noticeable at rest or with no activity at all
and be accompanied by stiffness and loss of motion. Simple tasks such as combing
your hair or placing your arm behind your back may prove difficult and/or painful.
Trauma such as a lifting injury or fall can cause a tear in the rotator cuff
that results in acute pain. When the tear occurs with an injury, there may be
sudden acute pain, a snapping sensation and an immediate weakness of the arm.
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Shoulder Evaluation