Radiology glossary

Shoulder findings, explained

Plain-English explainers for common shoulder imaging terms — rotator cuff tears and tendinopathy, AC joint arthritis, and fractures — what they mean, which scan shows what, and what to ask your doctor.

• Rotator Cuff Tear — What It Means on Your Report

  A rotator cuff tear means a shoulder tendon is torn. Plain-English explainer: MRI vs ultrasound, phrasing like 'full-thickness,' and next st

• Fracture — What It Means on Your Report

  Fracture means a bone is broken or cracked. Plain-English explainer: how X-ray and CT describe fractures, and questions to ask your doctor.

• Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy — What It Means on Your Report

  Rotator cuff tendinopathy means irritated shoulder tendons without a tear. Plain-English explainer and questions for your doctor.

• AC Joint Arthritis — What It Means on Your Report

  AC joint arthritis means wear in the small joint at the top of the shoulder. Plain-English explainer and questions for your doctor.