Severe cases may require the same surgeries used to treat complete rotator cuff tears.
It also explains how this common orthopedic condition is diagnosed, treated, and prevented.
What’s the Difference Between a Full Rotator Cuff Tear and a Partial Rotator Cuff Tear?
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The rotator cuff is a group of muscles andtendonsthat surround the shoulder joint.
A rotator cuff tear involves the tendons rather than the muscles.
These include:
Of the four, thesupraspinatus tendonis the one the most commonly injured.
It causes many of the same symptoms as a partial rupture but tends to be more painful and debilitating.
A partial rotator cuff tear does not cause the separation of the tendon from the bone.
Some partial tears are subtle and only involve superficial fraying.
Others can be quite extensive, causing extreme thinning that can lead to a complete rupture.
you could have more than one torn rotator cuff tear at the same time, either complete or partial.
What Are the Symptoms of a Partial Rotator Cuff Tear?
Pain on its own is not a reliable indicator of a partial rotator cuff tear.
Shoulder weakness and a loss of range of motion are far better indicators.
What Causes a Partial Rotator Cuff Tear?
The primary aim of the treatment is to allow the tendon to heal naturally while minimizing pain and inflammation.
It is only when conservative treatments fail that more invasive options are considered.
Conservative treatments for a partial rotator cuff tear include:
When Is Surgery Necessary?
If symptoms of a partial rotator cuff tear persist despite conservative treatments, surgery may be considered.
How Long Does a Partially Torn Rotator Cuff Take to Heal?
The recovery time for a partialrotator cuff tearcan vary based on the size and location of the tear.
Generally speaking:
How Are Partial Rotator Cuff Tears Prevented?
Pain, weakness, reduced range of motion, and clicking sounds are common signs.
The majority of partial tears can fully recover with nonsurgical treatment.
Surgery is generally reserved for people with a complete rotator cuff tear or those at high risk of one.
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