However, the joint-side portion of the supraspinatus tendon is more susceptible to mechanical failure than is the bursal side. Most of the tears of the cuff are the end result of chronic degeneration, which make them susceptible to rupture. The chronic deterioration of the cuff results from the coracoacromial arch, which is composed of the bony acromion, the coracoacromial ligament, and coracoid process. Repetitive microtrauma and anatomical variations lead to most of the rotator cuff injuries. Many individuals with full thickness cuff tears are not only asymptomatic, but have minimal functional disability.
Surgery results in better function regardless of the patient's age.
The great majority is found in patients aged 55-85 years. Younger patients are more likely to have rotator cuff dysfunction due to overuse, subtle instability, and muscle imbalance. Older patients tend to have chronic shoulder pain and degeneration. Pain should be characterized according to its duration of onset, location, radiation, timing, and quality. In addition, investigate pain for its relationship to activities and sport.