How is a rotator cuff injury diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for a rotator cuff injury may include the following: • x-ray – a diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film. • magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. A rotator cuff may tear partially or fully. Partial-thickness tears do not completely sever the tendon from the shoulder.
