What is the typical mechanism of injury for a rotator cuff tear?

The typical mechanism of injury for a rotator cuff tear often involves overhead lifting or sudden trauma. This is largely because the rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint and facilitate a wide range of shoulder movements. When an individual lifts weights or performs activities that require the arm to be raised above shoulder level, the rotator cuff can be subjected to excessive stress and strain.

In cases of sudden trauma, such as falling on an outstretched hand or a direct impact to the shoulder, the rotator cuff can sustain acute injuries, resulting in tears. Both repetitive overhead motions and abrupt, forceful movements can lead to tears, particularly as individuals age and their tissues become less resilient.

The other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not specifically encapsulate the primary mechanisms typically associated with rotator cuff injuries. For instance, repetitive stress without lifting is more relevant to chronic conditions rather than acute tears. Similarly, while a direct blow may cause injury, it is not the most common method for a rotator cuff tear compared to the activities associated with overhead lifting. Heavy lifting with straight arms can place stress on other structures but doesn't typically reflect the most frequent scenario leading to rotator cuff injuries.