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Anatomy and Biomechanics:
The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their tendon:
•Supraspinatus
• Infraspinatus
• Teres minor
• Subscapularis
PTRCTs can result from:
1. Acute trauma
2. Repetitive microtrauma
3. Degenerative changes
4. Intrinsic factors (e.g., hypovascularity)
5. Extrinsic factors (e.g., subacromial impingement)
In sports, PTRCTs are often associated with:
• Overhead activities (e.g., baseball, tennis, swimming)
• Contact sports (e.g., football, rugby)
• Weightlifting
PTRCTs are typically classified based on:
1. Location (articular, bursal, or interstitial)
2. Depth of involvement:
• Grade 1: <3mm or <25% tendon thickness
• Grade 2: 3-6mm or 25-50% tendon thickness
• Grade 3: >6mm or >50% tendon thickness
Athletes with PTRCTs may present with:
• Pain, particularly with overhead activities • Weakness
• Limited range of motion
• Night pain
• Difficulty performing sport-specific tasks
1. History:
• Mechanism of injury
•Duration and nature of symptoms
• Impact on athletic performance
2. Physical Examination:
• Range of motion assessment • Strength testing
• Special tests:
– Empty can test (supraspinatus)
– External rotation lag sign (infraspinatus)
– Lift-off test (subscapularis)
– Hawkins-Kennedy test (impingement)
3. Imaging:
• X-rays: To rule out bony abnormalities
• Ultrasound: Dynamic, cost-effective, but operator-dependent
• MRI: Gold standard for diagnosis and grading
• MR arthrography: Increased sensitivity for articular-sided tears
Treatment of PTRCTs in athletes should be individualized based on:
• Tear size and location
• Patient age and activity level
• Sport-specific demands
• Timing within the competitive season
Initial treatment often includes:
1. Rest and activity modification
2. NSAIDs for pain and inflammation
3. Physical therapy:
• Rotator cuff strengthening
• Scapular stabilization exercises
• Range of motion exercises
4. Corticosteroid injections (used judiciously)
Rehabilitation Protocol:
Phase 1 (0-4 weeks):
• Pain control and protection
• Passive range of motion exercises
• Isometric strengthening
Phase 2 (4-8 weeks):
• Progressive range of motion
• Initiation of rotator cuff strengthening
• Scapular stabilization exercises
Phase 3 (8-12 weeks):
• Sport-specific exercises
• Plyometrics
• Gradual return to throwing or overhead activities
Phase 3 (8-12 weeks):
• Sport-specific exercises
• Plyometrics
• Gradual return to throwing or overhead activities
Phase 4 (12+ weeks):
• Return to sport progression
• Continued strength and conditioning
Phase 4 (12+ weeks):
• Return to sport progression
• Continued strength and conditioning
Indications for surgery include:
• Failure of conservative treatment (3-6 months)
• High-grade tears (>50% tendon thickness)
• Acute, traumatic tears in young athletes
• Persistent pain or functional limitations affecting sport performance
Surgical options:
1. Arthroscopic debridement
2. Transtendon repair
3. Conversion to full-thickness tear and repair
Post-operative Rehabilitation:
Similar to conservative protocol, but with:
• Initial period of immobilization (2-4 weeks)
• Delayed strengthening (6-8 weeks post-op)
• Gradual return to sport (4-6 months)
Timing of return varies by sport:
• Non-throwing athletes: 3-4 months
• Throwing athletes: 6-9 months
1. Proper warm-up and cool-down routines
2. Balanced strength and flexibility training
3. Proper technique in sport-specific skills
4. Adequate rest and recovery between training sessions
5. Gradual progression in training intensity and volume
Emerging Treatments:
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Stem cell therapy
• Growth factor injections
Partial thickness rotator cuff tears present a significant challenge in sports medicine. A comprehensive approach involving accurate diagnosis, individualized treatment plans, and sport-specific rehabilitation is crucial for optimal outcomes. While many athletes can be successfully managed conservatively, surgical intervention may be necessary for high-grade tears or in cases refractory to non-operative treatment. Ongoing research into novel therapies and prevention strategies continues to enhance our ability to manage these injuries effectively in the athletic population.
©2025 Dr Frank McCormick All Rights Reserved.
©2025 Dr Frank McCormick All Rights Reserved.
