Rotator cuff tear

Question 1

What are the muscles of the rotator cuff?

Answer 1

(SITS) Supraspinatus
Infraspinatus
teres minor
Subscapularis

Question 2

What are the causes of rotator cuff tears?

Answer 2

(Chronic) degenerative tear seen in older adults (> 50 years)
(Acute) injury seen mostly in athletes
(Inflammatory) complication of rotator cuff tendinitis
Condition common amongst >60 yrs

Question 3

What are the clinical features of rotator cuff tears?

Answer 3

Painful abduction between 60 to 120 degrees
(Supraspinatous tear) Pain/weakness on empty can test
(Infraspinatous) Pain/weakness on external rotation (i.e. opening door)
(Subscapularis) Pain on lift off test. Hands behind small of back and pushing away

Question 4

How is rotator cuff tear diagnosed?

Answer 4

(Clinical)
(X-ray)
(US)

Question 5

What is the treatment for rotator cuff tear

Answer 5

(Conservative) Avoid activities involving overhead movements
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications (NSAIDs)
Physical therapy
(Surgery) Especially in traumatic and refractory cases