Hey everyone, welcome back to MasterUSMLE! Today, let’s break down a high-yield orthopedic complication—rotator cuff injury after a shoulder dislocation.

So, picture this: A middle-aged patient falls on an outstretched hand, dislocates the shoulder, gets it reduced, but weeks later still can’t lift the arm. What’s going on? Rotator cuff tear—most likely the supraspinatus!

Here’s what you need to look for:

Pain and weakness with abduction—the classic finding.

No sensory loss, which helps rule out axillary nerve injury.

Drop arm test positive—the patient lifts the arm, but it drops when released.

Now, what’s the best test? MRI! X-rays won’t show soft tissue injuries, so don’t waste time there.

And treatment? Physical therapy first, but if the tear is full-thickness or severe—surgery is on the table.

Bottom line? If a patient over 40 has a shoulder dislocation and still struggles with abduction weeks later—think rotator cuff tear!

That’s it for today—keep it simple, stay sharp, and I’ll catch you next time on MasterUSMLE!