health
February 18, 2026
99% of adults over 40 have shoulder "abnormalities" on an MRI, study finds
Some adults over 40 have shoulder pain, but nearly all have “abnormal” joints.
TL;DR
- 99% of adults over 40 have rotator cuff abnormalities on MRI, with most being asymptomatic.
- The study questions the current use of MRIs for diagnosing shoulder pain and the subsequent overtreatment of rotator cuff abnormalities.
- Researchers suggest that many "abnormalities" found on MRIs are normal age-related changes, not clinically significant structural issues.
- A change in terminology is recommended to reduce patient anxiety and the perceived need for surgical repair.
- Clinicians should prioritize patient history, clinical exams, and functional limitations over MRI findings when managing shoulder pain.
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