Partial or complete tears of any of the rotator cuff musculature is very debilitating and warrants immediate attention so as to not exacerbate symptoms. Ice, rest from activities that reproduce pain, and if range of motion is limited, prompt referral to a physician is imperitive. Muscles and tendons have good healing capabilities, but proper guidance through a rehabilitation program is essential. Capsule tears can also be of an acute or chronic nature. Acute episodes of capsule tears are the result of excessive torque placed upon the joint, usually in a rotational manner.
Chronic tears can be the result of too much stress on the joint over a prolonged period of time.
For example, baseball pitchers, javelin throwers, and gymnasts are vulnerable to capsular lesions because of their activity. Conservative treatment consists of strengthening of the surrounding structures in such a way that does not aggravate the area. Treatment should also be symptomatic and consist of icing when inflammed, modification of activities that exacerbate symptoms, and rest when irritated. Poor posture, anatomical disposition, muscle imbalance, and faulty overhead lifting mechanics are some of the causes of these conditions. Once it is inflammed, it becomes easier to impinge and the cycle continues.