Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears.

Last updated Tuesday, January 25, 2005

Diagnosis of incomplete thickness cuff lesion

A. History

1. Compromise of shoulder function in activities requiring rotator cuff function
2. Mechanism for damaging the rotator cuff, such as unanticipated eccentric load applied to elevated arm

B. Physical examination

1. Pain and weakness on tests of rotator cuff function, such as resisted elevation and resisted external rotation
2. Diagnosis is supported by subacromial crepitance

C. Radiographs

1. Diagnosis is supported by upward displacement of humeral head in relation to acromion and by acromial spurring

D. Definite identification

Definite identification of an incomplete thickness cuff lesion by an expert observer using one of the following:

• arthrography,
• arthroscopy,
• or open surgery.

Disclaimer

This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.

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