Rotator Cuff Procedures: An Orthopaedic Surgeon’s Guide (Sydney)

Sep 30, 2012

A torn rotator cuff is one of the most common shoulder conditions, particularly as we age. Understanding the basic anatomy involved can help explain why a tear causes the symptoms it does.

Rotator Cuff Anatomy

Four small muscles are attached to the upper arm bone (humerus) by tendons, together forming the rotator cuff. When these muscles and tendons are working properly, they hold the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder securely in place and help control its movement.

What Happens When the Rotator Cuff Tears

When one or more of these tendons tears, the head of the upper arm bone can move out of its normal position and catch against the roof of the shoulder (the acromion). This is known as impingement, and it commonly results in pain, weakness, and difficulty raising the arm – particularly with overhead movements.

Getting Assessed

If you have ongoing shoulder pain or difficulty raising your arm, it’s worth having it assessed by an orthopaedic surgeon with a special interest in shoulder surgery, who can determine whether the rotator cuff is involved and discuss appropriate treatment options.

Consultation locations: Sydney CBD, Macquarie University, Wollongong, and Campbelltown.