How subscapularis tears affect shoulder joint damage and function

Impact of Overload and Overuse Following Subscapularis Tears: Mechanisms of Shoulder Joint Damage

NIH-funded research Philadelphia VA Medical Center · NIH-10988221

This study looks at how tears in a specific shoulder tendon can affect the way your shoulder works and lead to pain and damage over time, with the goal of finding better ways to help people who have chronic shoulder pain from these injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPhiladelphia VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10988221 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of subscapularis tendon tears on shoulder joint mechanics and the resulting damage to cartilage and tendons. By utilizing an animal model, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to pain and loss of function in patients with these tears. The findings could help identify better clinical approaches for treating individuals suffering from chronic shoulder pain related to subscapularis injuries. The research is particularly focused on understanding how these tears contribute to ongoing joint damage and dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with subscapularis tendon tears or those experiencing chronic shoulder pain related to these injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with shoulder issues unrelated to subscapularis tears or those who have already undergone surgical repair may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with subscapularis tears, potentially reducing pain and enhancing shoulder function.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on rotator cuff tears, the specific focus on subscapularis tears and their impact on joint damage is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.