|  | Conditions Treatments | Sports Injury

Rotator Cuff Tear Vs. Tendonitis

Rotator cuff tears and tendonitis are two forms of injury that can affect the tendons inside the shoulder joint. Tendonitis may also occur in other areas of the body.

  1. The Facts

    • According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the rotator cuff consists of a group of four muscles and associated tendons that provide rotation in the shoulder joint and help hold the upper arm in place. Tendons are tough, fibrous bands that allow muscles to attach to bone.

    Rotator Cuff Tears

    • Rotator cuff tears involve rips or other breaches that damage the physical integrity of the rotator cuff tendons or muscles.

    Tendonitis

    • MayoClinic.com defines tendonitis (tendinitis) as an irritation or inflammation of any tendon, including the tendons of the shoulder. Common terms for the condition include pitcher's shoulder, swimmer's shoulder, tennis elbow and golfer's elbow.

    Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

    • Rotator cuff tears typically occur as a result of wear and tear or traumatic injuries. Smoking and repeated cortisone injections may also play a role in some cases, according to the University of Washington's Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.

    Causes of Tendonitis

    • Tendonitis typically results from repetitive motion of the affected tendon, although some cases result from a sudden physical injury.

Sports Injury - Related Articles