Biology
Biomechanics of Rotator Cuff Tears and Repair
Quick fact
A rotator cuff tendon can withstand forces up to several times your body weight during lifting, but a single eccentric overload or repetitive strain can exceed its tensile strength, leading to a tear.
Why this is interesting
Your shoulder can lift heavy weights without tearing, but a sudden motion—like catching yourself from a fall—can rupture the tendons that keep it stable. Why do some movements damage the rotator cuff while others don't?