What is the rotator cuff and what is a tear?
The Cuff is responsible for motion of the arm in space. The cuff lies directly on top of the humeral head, and directly below the acromion process, a part of the scapula bone. Between the acromion and the rotator cuff is the subacromial bursa, which occupies space, provides cushioning and contributes to smooth gliding of the cuff between the humeral head and the acromion. In some patients, normal wear and the aging process of the rotator cuff will lead to tears in the tendons of these muscles as they attach to the humerus. This normal progression may never become painful and might not ever be noticed by some patients, but in other patients it can be a source of pain and functional disability. When patients have a rotator cuff tear that is causing problems, the ability to do overhead activity can be severely impaired and strength of the shoulder in general is decreased.
