As a people age and their physical activity decreases, tendons begin to lose strength. This weakening can lead to a rotator cuff tear. The rotator cuff tendons are located beneath the deltoid muscle and bone at the tip of the shoulder. More than half of those over age 70 will have a rotator cuff tear, Smith notes. As long as they aren't in pain and are able to perform needed activities by using compensating muscles, most do just fine.
Tears can also occur due to hard use or a sudden jerk.
In the majority of cases, rotator cuff tears can be treated by exercising and strengthening compensating muscles in the shoulders. In some cases surgery to repair the damaged tendon may be necessary. This scar tissue reduces flexibility in the shoulder and makes it more prone to injury. Performing stretching exercises before starting activities can be helpful in reducing further injury and stiffness. Treatments for arthritis in the shoulder depend on the severity of pain.