What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
A rotator cuff tear is an injury involving one or more of the tendons that stabilize and move the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help lift and rotate the arm while keeping the shoulder stable during movement.
Rotator cuff tears may occur suddenly due to trauma or develop gradually from repetitive use and tendon degeneration over time. The condition can cause shoulder pain, weakness, limited range of motion, and difficulty performing daily activities.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained shoulder specialists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment options designed to relieve pain, restore mobility, and help patients return to normal activity safely.
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear
- Shoulder pain, especially when lifting the arm
- Weakness in the shoulder or arm
- Pain during overhead activities
- Difficulty reaching behind the back
- Shoulder stiffness or reduced mobility
- Clicking or popping sensations in the shoulder
- Night pain or difficulty sleeping on the affected side
Causes & Risk Factors
Rotator cuff tears may develop from injury, repetitive overhead activity, or gradual tendon degeneration.
- Falls or direct trauma to the shoulder
- Repetitive overhead motions
- Sports such as baseball, tennis, or swimming
- Heavy lifting or repetitive work activities
- Aging-related tendon degeneration
- Poor shoulder mechanics or muscle imbalance
- Previous shoulder injuries
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of the shoulder joint and surrounding tendons.
- Physical examination of the shoulder
- Assessment of strength, mobility, and stability
- Review of symptoms and activity level
- X-rays to evaluate joint structure and bone changes
- MRI or ultrasound imaging to assess tendon damage
Accurate diagnosis helps determine the severity of the tear and guides the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many rotator cuff tears can be treated successfully without surgery depending on the severity of the injury and the patient’s activity goals. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
- Corticosteroid injections
- Stretching and mobility programs
- Ice therapy and pain management
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended for larger tears, persistent weakness, or symptoms that do not improve with conservative treatment. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair may be used to reattach the torn tendon and restore shoulder stability and function. Our orthopedic surgeons use advanced minimally invasive techniques designed to support recovery and long-term shoulder health.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of the tear and the treatment approach used.
- Mild tears may improve within weeks to months with therapy
- Physical therapy is essential for restoring shoulder strength and mobility
- Surgical recovery may require several months of rehabilitation
- Gradual return to sports and overhead activity is important during healing
Our team works closely with patients throughout rehabilitation to help restore comfortable shoulder movement and reduce reinjury risk.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our shoulder specialists provide advanced orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for shoulder injuries and musculoskeletal conditions.
- Experienced shoulder and sports medicine specialists
- Advanced imaging and tendon evaluation
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Minimally invasive arthroscopic shoulder techniques
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for a rotator cuff tear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a rotator cuff tear feel like?
Common symptoms include shoulder pain, weakness, stiffness, and difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.
Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?
Some tears improve with physical therapy and conservative care, though larger or complete tears may require surgery.
How long does recovery take after rotator cuff surgery?
Recovery timelines vary, but many patients require several months of rehabilitation following surgery.
What causes rotator cuff tears?
Rotator cuff tears may result from falls, repetitive overhead activity, sports injuries, heavy lifting, or tendon degeneration over time.
When should I see a specialist?
If shoulder pain, weakness, or limited mobility interferes with sleep, work, exercise, or daily activities, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.