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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What causes a rotator cuff tear?

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  • Dr Andrei Diacon is an Australian-trained Orthopaedic Surgeon subspecialising shoulder and knee conditions. He takes an evidence-based, patient-centred approach, prioritising non-operative management where appropriate and … View Profile

    Rotator cuff tears can occur in two main ways. Acute tears happen suddenly, typically from lifting something too heavy, a fall onto an outstretched hand, or a sudden pull. Degenerative tears develop slowly over time due to repetitive stress, reduced blood supply to the tendons as we age, and bone spurs that can wear away tendon tissue. Risk factors include age (tears are more common over 40), repetitive overhead activity (painting, carpentry, certain sports), smoking, and family history.

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