rotator cuff tears

Question 1

when can the tendons of the rotator cuff tear

Answer 1

with minimal or no trauma as a consequence of degeneration

Question 2

classic history

Answer 2

sudden jerk in patient over 40 years old resulting in subsequent pain and weakness

Question 3

how many people have asymptomatic rotator cuff tears

Answer 3

at least 20% of over 60 year olds

Question 4

who are rotator cuff tears extremely uncommon in

Answer 4

young people

Question 5

what can the tears be

Answer 5

partial or full thickness and usually involve the supraspinatus

Question 6

larger tears

Answer 6

can extend into the subscapularis and infrapinatus

Question 7

presentation

Answer 7

pain and weakness on initiation of abduction (supraspinatus) and internal rotation (subscapularis) and external rotation (infraspinatus)

Question 8

investigation for rotator cuff tears

Answer 8

MRI

Question 9

management of rotator cuff tears

Answer 9

physiotherapy to strengthen up the remaining rotator cuff muscles as the can usually compensate for loss of supraspinatus muscle

Question 10

surgery for rotator cuff tears

Answer 10

is controversial as one third inevitably fail but may be used if there is need to maintain strength or to prevent subsequent osteoarthritis