Rotator Cuff Problems

  • Rotator cuff tear:
    An injury tears a rotator cuff tendon that’s been weakened by age or wear and tear. Weakness in the arm (and usually pain) are the symptoms.This is a very common condition seen in middle age and older people.
  • Rotator cuff tendinitis (tendonitis):
    Tendinitis denotes damage or degeneration of the tendon tissue without a tear, that lead to pain and shoulder dysfunction. Repetitive overhead use of the arms (such as painting or throwing) causes a painful strain injury.
  • Rotator cuff impingement:
    The tendons of the rotator cuff are squeezed between the humerus and the undersurface of acromion causing shoulder pain and stiffness. Symptoms and treatment of impingement are similar to tendinitis and usually resolve with time and exercise, or steroid injections. Only resistant conditions requre surgical intervention.
  • Subacromial bursitis:
    Inflammation of the small sac of fluid (bursa) that cushions the rotator cuff tendons from the nearby acromion. This is a condition commonly associated with rotator cuff tear as well as impingement of the shoulder.