Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Several muscles and tendons in the area between your upper arm and your shoulder together form your rotator cuff. As with any other muscle group in the body, you can injure your rotator cuff and tear the tendons. Diagnostic testing such as an MRI as well as a physical examination can detect a rotator cuff tear. There are several different ways in which a rotator cuff tear can occur, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery (see Resources).

Age

• As people age, the wear and tear on their muscles increases. This in itself can be a cause of a rotator cuff tear, as this type of injury is more prevalent in people over 40 years old.

Heavy Use

• Athletes, people who work in fields that demand heavy physical labor and others who perform repetitive motions with their arms have a higher risk of tearing a rotator cuff.

Posture Problems

• If you slouch or have poor overall posture, you may cause a rotator cuff tear or strain. Holding and moving your body in ways that are "misusing" the muscles and tendons make them more likely to tear.

Specific Injury

• Injuries such as dislocating your shoulder, experiencing bursitis or tendonitis can all cause a rotator cuff tear if the original injury is not treated.

Upper Body Weakness

• Being weaker in your upper body than lower body can be a risk factor for developing rotator cuff injuries and tears. Strength training for your shoulders and upper arms can decrease your risk.