The mechanical environment of the supraspinatus tendon over a range of arm elevation

Rotator cuff disease is a common cause of pain and dysfunction. Understanding the mechanism of rotator cuff injury is required for prevention and effective treatment. The effect of kinematics on rotator cuff pathology is not well understood — finite element modeling may be used to understand the mechanics through a range of motion. A model of the glenohumeral joint (scapula, humerus, and supraspinatus) simulated an arm elevation, and the mechanics were observed. The stress within the supraspinatus tendon increased with arm elevation, undergoing large deformation, particularly torsion. Additional model development and application is ongoing.