The following tests can all be used to make the diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear:

MRI
A MRI is the most commonly used test to confirm a diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear. The MRI is helpful because it can show both complete rotator cuff tears and partial rotator cuff tears. The MRI can also show evidence of shoulder bursitis and other common shoulder problems.

Arthrogram
An arthrogram used to be the most commonly used test to diagnose a rotator cuff tear. In this study a dye that shows up on x-ray is injected into the shoulder joint. An intact rotator cuff should contain the dye within the joint, while a rotator cuff tear will allow the dye to leak into surrounding tissues. By taking an x-ray after an injection, your doctor can see evidence of a rotator cuff tear.

Ultrasound
New studies now show that an ultrasound, operated by a skilled technician, can be as effective detecting a rotator cuff tear as these other methods. Depending on your doctor's preference, you may undergo an ultrasound study to diagnose a rotator cuff tear.