In this population-based study, researchers utilized 3-Tesla MRI technology to examine the prevalence of rotator cuff abnormalities among adults aged 41 to 76.

The results revealed that nearly 99% of participants exhibited at least one structural issue, such as tendinopathy or tears, regardless of whether they experienced shoulder pain.

Crucially, the data demonstrated that these findings were almost as common in asymptomatic individuals as in those with symptoms, particularly after adjusting for age and clinical tests.

These insights suggest that many tendon changes are actually normal age-related transitions rather than distinct diseases or causes of disability.

Consequently, the authors argue that routine diagnostic imaging for non-traumatic shoulder pain may lead to unnecessary anxiety and overtreatment.

Ultimately, the study advocates for more precise medical terminology to prevent patients from undergoing unneeded surgical interventions for incidental findings.

(Ibounig T, Järvinen TLN, Raatikainen S, Härkänen T, Sillanpää N, Bensch F, et al. Incidental rotator cuff abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging. JAMA Intern Med [Internet]. 2026; Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2025.7903)