What is the rotator cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that hold the ball of the shoulder in its socket and help you lift and rotate your arm. These tendons can tear after a fall or heavy lifting, or wear gradually with age.
Symptoms
- Pain at night, especially when lying on the affected side
- Weakness when lifting the arm overhead
- Pain combing hair, reaching a shelf or putting on a shirt
Diagnosis
Careful clinical tests, together with ultrasound or MRI, show the size and type of tear and the quality of the tendon — which helps decide the best treatment.
Treatment
Partial and degenerative tears often respond to physiotherapy, activity changes and, in selected cases, injections. Full-thickness tears, especially after an injury in active patients, usually do better with arthroscopic repair, where the tendon is re-attached to the bone using small anchors.
Recovery
After repair, the arm rests in a sling for several weeks. Gentle movement starts early under guidance, followed by strengthening. Full recovery takes several months, and following the rehabilitation plan is key to a good result.
This page explains the treatment in general terms. Whether it is right for you is decided only after an examination and review of your X-ray or MRI.