Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons that help stabilise the shoulder joint and power its movements. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one of these tendons is damaged, either partially or completely. Tears can develop gradually as part of the natural ageing process, when tendons weaken and wear out, or they may result from impingement (pinching of the tendon under bone). In some cases, they follow an acute injury such as a fall onto the shoulder or lifting something heavy.

Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear

Rotator cuff tears often mimic other shoulder problems such as tendinitis or bursitis. Typical symptoms include:

• Pain along the outer arm, often worse at night and disrupting sleep
• Sharp, catching pain when lifting the arm to shoulder level (around 90°)
• Weakness when trying to raise or rotate the arm
• Difficulty lifting the arm overhead, especially in larger tears
• Muscle wasting around the shoulder in chronic cases

In a small percentage of patients, untreated long-standing tears can lead to arthritis of the shoulder, sometimes requiring joint replacement surgery.

Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tear

Non-Surgical Management

Not every rotator cuff tear requires immediate surgery. Many patients respond well to:

• Physiotherapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve movement
• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and control pain
• Activity modifications and medication to ease symptoms

Partial-thickness tears, in particular, are often treated conservatively before surgery is considered.

Surgical Options for Shoulder Tears

Surgery can play a vital role in restoring shoulder strength and mobility, particularly when non-surgical treatments are not sufficient. By tailoring the procedure to the size and type of tear, shoulder specialists ensure effective repair while helping reduce overall recovery time.

Types of Surgery

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

1. Full-Thickness Tear (Complete Tear)
   A complete detachment of the tendon from its attachment point on the bone. For example, a full-thickness tear of the supraspinatus tendon means it has detached fully from the greater tuberosity of the humerus. These rarely heal without surgical repair.
2. Partial-Thickness Tear
   A tear that does not go all the way through the tendon. These may be located on the articular surface (joint side), bursal surface (outer side), or within the tendon itself (intrasubstance tear).
   • If less than 50% of tendon thickness is involved, debridement is often sufficient.
   • If more than 50% is involved, many surgeons recommend repair to restore strength and prevent further damage.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Small tears can enlarge over time, leading to greater weakness, persistent pain, and even shoulder arthritis. Early assessment ensures the most effective treatment whether that means targeted physiotherapy or surgical repair.

Take the Next Step

If you are struggling with shoulder pain, weakness, or difficulty lifting your arm, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Dr. Rohit Sane, Australia trained shoulder surgeon, offers personalised treatment for rotator cuff tears ranging from conservative care to advanced arthroscopic repair.

Book your consultation today and take the first step toward pain-free movement and lasting shoulder strength.