What causes rotator cuff problems?

This is a continuation of my blog series on rotator cuff issues. Today, we will discuss what causes rotator cuff problems.

Rotator cuff problems can fall along a wide spectrum of issues.  The most common is inflammation of the rotator cuff called rotator cuff tendinitis.  Along with this issue is inflammation of the bursa sac called bursitis.  Sometimes, the rotator cuff tears off of the humerus bone.  This can range from a small, partial tear of the rotator cuff tendon to a complete tear of the rotator cuff tendon.  Many times, complete rotator cuff tears begin with minor tendinitis that progress to partial tearing and then complete tear.

There are two main causes of rotator cuff tears: acute injury and degeneration.

Injury to your rotator cuff is usually caused by lifting something very heavy with a jerking motion.  This can tear the rotator cuff tendon off of the humerus bone.

Location of rotator cuff pain

Degenerative tears are by far the most common type of rotator cuff tears.  These tears are often caused by wearing down of the tendon slowly over time.  This type of tear usually starts with tendinitis and progress to partial thickness tears and complete tears.  These can be due to repetitive stress or just wear over time.

Stay tuned for more information about rotator cuff tears. More information can be found here.