The rotator cuff is a strong complex of tendons and muscles that help stabilize the shoulder. One or more of the tendons in the rotator cuff may be torn either by

• A single injury (fall or outstretched arm)
• Constant irritation due to repetitive overhead arm motions
• Age-related, degenerative damage

Rotator cuff tear means detachment of rotator cuff from its standard attachment to the humerus bone. In many cases, the reason for the rotator cuff injury is unknown. A torn rotator cuff will cause pain at the top and outside of the shoulder when you raise or extend your arm. The shoulder may become weak, making it difficult to raise the arm far away from the side. If rotator cuff tears are left untreated, it may lead to accelerated wear and tear of the joint; it may also cause severe pain and further restriction of movement. In that case, the condition is called ‘Rotator cuff arthropathy’.

Treatment

The treatment aims to reattach the torn rotator cuff back to its normal bony attachment. Arthroscopic surgery can be used to reattach the torn edge of the rotator tendon to the humerus bone with specialized implants (suture anchors) and special threads (fiber wires).