A rotator cuff tear is a tear in one or more of the tendons that surround the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that attach the muscles in the shoulder blade to the humerus (upper arm bone). These tendons help to stabilize the shoulder joint and allow it to move smoothly.
[Image of Rotator cuff tear medical illustration]
Rotator cuff tears are common in people over the age of 40, and they are more common in people who participate in overhead sports, such as baseball, swimming, and tennis.
The symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include:
- Pain in the shoulder
- Weakness in the shoulder
- Stiffness in the shoulder
- A clicking or popping sensation in the shoulder
- Difficulty reaching overhead
The diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear is made by a doctor based on your medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI.
The treatment for a rotator cuff tear depends on the severity of the tear. Mild tears may be treated with rest, ice, over-the-counter pain medication, and physical therapy. More severe tears may require surgery.
Physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the shoulder and improve range of motion. Surgery is only used in severe cases when other treatments have not been successful.
The prognosis for a rotator cuff tear is usually good. Most people make a full recovery with time and treatment.
If you have any pain or weakness in your shoulder, we encourage you to make an appointment to see Dr Sara Safari at Warrandyte Road Clinic to get a diagnosis and treatment.
Dr Sara Safari – Sports and Musculoskeletal Doctor
![](https://wrclinic.com.au/img/avatar/sara-avatar.jpg"){kind=avatar}
Dr Sara Safari is an experienced sports and musculoskeletal doctor with extensive experience in helping athletes and active individuals of all ages and levels get back to the activities they love.
She has previously held roles as a sports doctor with the AFL Academy, the Sydney Swans, Melbourne City FC and Eastern Ranges Football Club. She also consults as a sports and musculoskeletal physician at Knox Orthopaedic Group and assists in orthopaedic surgeries on a regular basis at various hospitals around Melbourne.