Rotator cuff injuries in the contact athlete.

Rotator cuff injuries in contact athletes are typically a result of a different mechanism than that seen with older patients or overhead athletes. This unique mechanism along with the extreme demands of these athletes presents special challenges to the surgeon. Special consideration should be given to in-season rehabilitation to allow the athlete to continue to compete if possible. When this is not possible, or for the out-of-season athlete with a rotator cuff injury requiring surgery, special consideration must be given to obtaining the strongest repair possible. The goal in all aspects of treatment is returning the athlete to full participation safely while minimizing recurrent injury or disability during the recovery process.