Understanding the causes of rotator cuff tears
Investigating the Multi-factorial Etiology of Rotator Cuff Pathology in Human Subjects
This work builds a model linking shoulder motion, tendon degeneration, and overuse to rotator cuff tears in people with and without shoulder symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10915545 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient point of view, researchers will measure how your shoulder moves using precise biplane x‑ray imaging to look for impingement during motion. They will use shear wave elastography and other imaging to characterize tendon degeneration. The team will first create a multivariable model using people without symptoms, then expand it with more asymptomatic participants and later include people who have shoulder pain or tears. The goal is to separate the roles of extrinsic motion, intrinsic tendon changes, and overuse in causing rotator cuff problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults both without shoulder symptoms and those with shoulder pain or suspected rotator cuff degeneration or tears could be eligible, especially older adults at higher risk.
Not a fit: People needing immediate surgical repair for an acute tear or those unable or unwilling to undergo imaging tests would likely receive no direct benefit from participating.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help doctors identify why a person’s rotator cuff is failing and guide better prevention or targeted treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have supported roles for impingement, degeneration, and overuse, but applying combined human biplane x‑ray and shear wave elastography models is novel and not yet proven in people.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lawrence, Rebekah L — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Lawrence, Rebekah L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.