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Rotator Cuff Tear

Partial or complete tear in the tendons of the four muscles surrounding the shoulder joint.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Rotator Cuff Tear?

The rotator cuff is a structure consisting of the tendons of four muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, teres minor) that stabilize the shoulder joint and provide rotational movements of the arm. Tears in these tendons can be partial or full-thickness.

Tears occur by two main mechanisms: chronic degenerative tears common in those over 50, and acute traumatic tears resulting from sports injuries and falls. The supraspinatus tendon is most commonly affected.

Rotator cuff tear is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain; if untreated, the tear can enlarge and severely impair shoulder function.

Symptoms

Shoulder pain especially worsening at night
Difficulty raising the arm above head level
Arm pain radiating to the shoulder
Weakness and loss of grip strength in the shoulder
Clicking or grinding sound with movement
Restriction in reaching and backward movements

Risk Factors

Advanced age (over 50)
Repetitive overhead movements (painter, tennis player, swimmer)
Acute shoulder trauma (falls, sudden pulling)
Smoking
Hypercholesterolemia and diabetes
Previous shoulder surgery

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When sudden shoulder pain and weakness develop
  • When you can no longer hold your arm at your side
  • In shoulder pain lasting longer than two weeks
  • In shoulder pain that prevents sleep at night
  • In shoulder weakness affecting work or sports performance

Treatment Methods

01
Conservative treatment: rest, ice application, painkillers
02
Physical therapy and shoulder strengthening exercises
03
Corticosteroid injection
04
Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (in full-thickness tears)
05
Mini-open or open surgical repair
06
Postoperative rehabilitation (4-6 months)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ortopedi ve Travmatoloji Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.