The rotator cuff are a group of muscles that surround the shoulder and a responsible for stabilizing and moving the shoulder joint.
Rotator cuff tears are very common with aging. Some cases happen due to fall or minor injuries and many cases of rotator cuff tears are not associated with any injury and are a part of the aging process. These patients frequently have pain over the upper aspect of the shoulder and is made worse by activity. Of particular concern the severe pain in the shoulder during the night with significant sleep disturbance. In addition to pain there is also weakness in the shoulder.
Partial tears of rotator cuff can be treated successfully with pain relieving medicines, rest and physiotherapy. Some cases may need an injection of Platelet Rich Plasma or steroid into the shoulder for relief
Shoulder pain lasting for weeks is a common problem in patients with rotator cuff tears. Full thickness rotator cuff tears will not heal on their own, and can only do so if a surgical repair is performed. Repair of these tendons involve stiching them back to the bone [humerus] with suture anchors or bone tunnels. This surgery can be performed with shoulder arthroscopy or open. Arthroscopy [Key hole] techniques involve less blood loss, less pain and faster recovery. Best results with arthroscopy is seen if rotator cuff repair is done early. With delay the cuff becomes retracted and surgery becomes more difficult and results less predictable.