Isolated subscapularis tear from minimal trauma in a recreational athlete:A case report

A 49-year-old male recreational weight lifter suffered an isolated partial tear of the subscapularis muscle after minimal trauma. His history was atyp ical for development of a subscapularis tear, which made his case more diff icult to evaluate and subsequently treat. His recovery was uncomplicated an d was facilitated by a physical therapy program to enhance rotator cuff str ength and proprioception. This report includes a brief review of the litera ture on the etiology and management of these tears. This case emphasizes th e importance of an appropriate physical examination and judicious use of im aging techniques so that uncommon disorders, even those with unusual presen tations, can be diagnosed and managed to obtain good outcomes.