Epidemiology, Natural History, and Indications for Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff disease is the most common shoulder disorder treated by orthopedic surgeons. Little information exits regarding its prevalence and natural history. The prevalence of rotator cuff tearing increases with age as well as several other factors including smoking and family history. Knowledge regarding the natural history of nonoperatively treated tears as well as the healing potential after repair can be used to aid in refining surgical and nonsurgical indications for the treatment rotator cuff tears. An algorithmic approach to the treatment of rotator cuff tears is reviewed.