ROTATOR CUFF INJURIES IN ATHLETES: ETIOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS AND MODERN TREATMENT METHODS – A LITERATURE REVIEW

Rotator cuff injuries are a prevalent and debilitating condition among athletes, particularly those engaged in overhead and throwing sports. Once primarily associated with aging populations, these injuries are now frequently diagnosed in younger, high-performance athletes due to advances in imaging and greater clinical awareness. This literature review synthesizes current knowledge on the etiology, diagnostic strategies, and modern treatment methods for rotator cuff injuries across various athletic disciplines. Key risk factors include repetitive microtrauma, poor biomechanics, scapular dyskinesis, and sport-specific demands such as the overhead motions in tennis, handball, and baseball. Diagnostic accuracy has significantly improved with the combined use of physical examination and imaging modalities - most notably MRI and ultrasonography. While MRI remains the gold standard for soft tissue visualization, ultrasound offers a cost-effective and dynamic alternative. Treatment options range from conservative management and rehabilitation to arthroscopic surgical repair, with outcomes influenced by age, sport, injury severity, and adherence to sport-specific rehabilitation protocols. Return-to-sport rates vary by population, with competitive athletes generally achieving faster recovery. The review underscores the need for tailored prevention, early diagnosis, and individualized rehabilitation strategies to optimize performance outcomes and long-term joint health in athletic populations.