What is an occult rotator cuff tear?

An occult rotator cuff tear is a tear in the rotator cuff that is not visible on standard X-rays. This type of tear is often diagnosed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound.

Occult rotator cuff tears are commonly seen in people who are active in overhead sports, such as baseball, tennis, and swimming. They can also occur in people who have a history of shoulder injuries or who have degenerative conditions, such as arthritis.

Symptoms of an occult rotator cuff tear include:

- Shoulder pain

- Weakness in the shoulder

- Difficulty raising the arm

- Clicking or grinding sensation in the shoulder

- Swelling and bruising around the shoulder

Treatment for an occult rotator cuff tear depends on the severity of the tear and the individual's symptoms. Treatment options may include:

- Rest

- Ice

- Physical therapy

- Anti-inflammatory medication

- Cortisone injections

- Surgery

In most cases, occult rotator cuff tears can be treated successfully with non-surgical methods. However, surgery may be necessary in cases of severe tears or tears that do not respond to other treatments.