How Do Doctors Diagnose Rotator Cuff Tears?
Published: Dec 08, 2023
Diagnosing a rotator cuff tear isn't straightforward. Here's how medical professionals get to the bottom of it with tests and imaging.
Contents
Physical Examinations
Doctors often start with physical tests like the painful arc, drop arm, and external rotation weakness tests. These tests help identify potential tears, although results can vary. Doctors look for specific signs of weakness or pain during these tests to determine the likelihood of a tear.
The Role of Imaging
When physical exams aren't conclusive, imaging like MRI or ultrasound comes into play. MRI is particularly useful for visualizing the extent of a tear and planning potential surgery. Ultrasound is another accurate tool, especially for detecting superficial tears and muscle lesions.
Advanced Imaging Techniques
In some cases, more advanced techniques like MR arthrography or CT arthrography are used. These are more sensitive in detecting partial tears and are often employed when standard imaging methods are insufficient. These techniques provide a detailed view of the shoulder joint to guide treatment plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
The painful arc, drop arm, and external rotation weakness tests are commonly used.
MRI is used when physical exams are inconclusive or for surgical planning.
Yes, ultrasound is reliable for detecting superficial tears.
They are advanced imaging methods used to detect partial tears.
Key Takeaways
Accurate diagnosis of rotator cuff tears requires a combination of physical tests and imaging.
Try it out by consulting Doctronic for an assessment of your shoulder issues.Related Articles
References
Farooqi AS, Lee A, Novikov D, et al. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211035106.
de Jesus JO, Parker L, Frangos AJ, Nazarian LN. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2009; 192:1701.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.