Do rotator cuff tears always show on MRI?
Photo Credit: Courtesy of 3DStockPhoto (cuff image)
Diagnosis of Partial Rotator Cuff Tears MRI scans are most commonly used to diagnose partial rotator cuff tears. However, just because an MRI scan shows a tear doesn't mean it is the cause of your shoulder pain. ... It is common for a patient to develop a stiff and painful shoulder with no injury.