MRI evaluation of the shoulder tendon allows for the assessment of the tendons surrounding the shoulder (known as the rotator cuff) as well as assess for trauma to the cartilage and labrum, the latter in cases of episodes of instability, such as following dislocation.
Shoulder injuries are common in athletes of all ages. Instability leading to dislocation (or near dislocation, known as subluxation) typically occurs in young people and is usually following a single traumatic episode, such as being tackled during a football game, or falling on an outstretched arm.
Identifying which structures are injured and quantifying the degree of injury is important as the athlete may be a candidate for surgical repair and this is most accurately done with MRI.
Assessment of supraspinatus tendon injuries