The conservative management of rotator cuff disorders

A process of progressive tendon failure leads to rotator cuff rupture in a significant percentage of the ageing population but many individuals remain asymptomatic. Aetiological factors are varied and not completely understood but greater knowledge of shoulder function and mechanics allows for improved non-operative and operative management. There is a definite role for comprehensive conservative treatment of rotator cuff disorders in those cases where surgery is not clearly indicated. Successful rehabilitation depends largely on proper clinical assessment and individualized treatment. This requires a good understanding of the biomechanics of shoulder, and especially rotator cuff, function. Few recent studies have properly evaluated the results of such non-operative treatment.