Rotator Cuff Tears

Strength is essential to carry out the functions of the shoulder. Many different muscles are required to power the shoulder because of the need to control both humeroscapular and scapulothoracic positions and to allow the vast range of motions of these articulations. For normal function, each muscle must be healthy, conditioned, securely attached, and coordinated.

Weakness of the shoulder can come from deficits in coordination, nerve, muscle or tendon. Often, weak shoulders will respond to a gradually progressive strengthening program. If shoulder weakness does not respond to these exercises, it may be due to a rotator cuff problem, or a nerve injury. In this section we focus our attention on the most common mechanical cause of shoulder weakness, rotator cuff failure.