Progress in studying the impact of hyperlipidemia and statins on rotator cuff injury and repair

Abstract

This review delves into the intersection of two prevalent conditions, hyperlipidemia and rotator cuff injuries, both of which bear substantial healthcare burdens. Our investigation begins with an exploration of rotator cuff injuries, common musculoskeletal disorders that severely impair shoulder functionality and quality of life. These injuries are notably pervasive among sports enthusiasts and the older adult, with an incidence rate estimated at 5–10% in the general population. Despite their widespread occurrence and the diverse, multifactorial etiological factors, effective treatment strategies remain elusive. We then examine hyperlipidemia, a metabolic disorder affecting approximately 40% of the global adult population. Characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, hyperlipidemia can precipitate severe cardiovascular complications and presents a significant socioeconomic burden. Although current management strategies encompass lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions, the condition remains a formidable health challenge. Central to this review is the exploration of a potential association between hyperlipidemia and rotator cuff injuries. We aim to synthesize the current understanding of hyperlipidemia’s role in the pathophysiology of rotator cuff injuries, thereby offering fresh insights into their common etiological underpinnings, potential therapeutic targets, and drugs, such as Statins. The influence of other lipid-lowering therapeutics on tendon health is also considered, and further research into the molecular pathways and potential therapeutic benefits of these drugs is required. This pursuit aligns with broader efforts to enhance patient outcomes, minimize healthcare burdens, and contribute to the global understanding of these prevalent conditions.

A causal association between lipid-lowering medications and rotator cuff syndrome: a drug-targeted mendelian randomization study

“…However, most current investigations into their specific mechanisms predominantly focus on animal models and lack depth, with a continued absence of high-quality studies. Given these facts, future research should emphasize further investigations into cellular and molecular mechanisms ( Qian et al, 2023 ). While drug-target Mendelian randomization studies can reveal causal relationships between medications and diseases, we still believe that high-quality clinical research is essential.…”

“…It is notably prevalent among athletes engaging in overhead activities, with reported incidence rates of 23% for handball players, 34% for baseball pitchers, and 35% for swimmers ( Andersson et al, 2017 ; Lin et al, 2018 ; Davis et al, 2024 ). Among the general population, the incidence rate is 5%–10%, and it even exceeds 20% in those aged over 60 ( Qian et al, 2023 ). Primary conservative interventions encompass local corticosteroid injections and oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) ( Desjardins-Charbonneau et al, 2015 ).…”

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“…However, most current investigations into their specific mechanisms predominantly focus on animal models and lack depth, with a continued absence of high-quality studies. Given these facts, future research should emphasize further investigations into cellular and molecular mechanisms (Qian et al, 2023). While drug-target Mendelian randomization studies can reveal causal relationships between medications and diseases, we still believe that high-quality clinical research is essential.…”

“…It is notably prevalent among athletes engaging in overhead activities, with reported incidence rates of 23% for handball players, 34% for baseball pitchers, and 35% for swimmers (Andersson et al, 2017;Lin et al, 2018;Davis et al, 2024). Among the general population, the incidence rate is 5%-10%, and it even exceeds 20% in those aged over 60 (Qian et al, 2023). Primary conservative interventions encompass local corticosteroid injections and oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (Desjardins-Charbonneau et al, 2015).…”