The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons immediately surrounding the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff muscles and their tendons control rotational and upward/outward movement (such as reaching) of the shoulder. In the human body, muscle becomes tendon and tendon attaches to bone. A rotator cuff tear is when tendon tears from bone to varying extents. When the tendon tears from bone, the activity of the muscle it controls is damaged or incapacitated. 

 

A rotator cuff tear can cause shoulder pain (especially at night-time), weakness, limited range of motion, or pain radiating down the upper portion of your arm. 

 

A rotator cuff injury can occur in a variety of ways: repetitive or traumatic lifting, a fall, a sports injury, or wear-and-tear. An examination in the office as well as MRI imaging will confirm the presence of a torn rotator cuff. Depending on the size, shape, and location of your rotator cuff tear, there are different treatment options:

 

• For larger (“high grade”) partial or complete rotator cuff tears, Dr. Bedford will recommend an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. 

• For very small (“low grade”) partial rotator cuff tears, Dr. Bedford may recommend conservative management such as oral anti inflammatory medication and physical therapy.