Overview
A rotator cuff injury is a common cause of shoulder pain, especially in adults who use their arms frequently for work, exercise, or overhead movement. It can range from mild inflammation to a full tear, with symptoms that include pain, weakness, and limited movement. Injuries can happen suddenly or develop over time, and while many can be managed with rest and guided rotator cuff exercises, some may require medical treatment for lasting relief and recovery.
What is Rotator Cuff Injury?
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. Together, they stabilise the joint and allow the shoulder to move in a wide range of directions, including lifting, rotating, and reaching.
A rotator cuff injury occurs when one or more of these muscles or tendons become irritated, strained, or torn. These injuries can be minor or more severe and can affect both movement and strength in the shoulder.
What Are The Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injury?
If you’re wondering what a rotator cuff injury feels like, it’s often described as a deep, nagging pain that becomes more noticeable during certain movements or after activity. Other symptoms can include:
- A dull, aching shoulder pain
- Difficulty lifting or reaching overhead
- Weakness in the arm or shoulder
- Pain that worsens at night or disrupts sleep
- Clicking or popping when moving the shoulder
- Limited range of motion
- Discomfort when lying on the affected shoulder
The exact symptoms you might experience can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. If in doubt, talk to your doctor for advice.
What Causes Rotator Cuff Injury?
Understanding what causes rotator cuff injury can help people make small changes to avoid further strain or re-injury. There are several possible causes, including:
- Wear and tear: Over time, age-related changes in the tendon can lead to gradual fraying or weakening.
- Repetitive overhead activity: This is common in painters, carpenters, decorators, or athletes who regularly use overhead motion.
- Heavy lifting: Including weightlifting, injury can occur when lifting weights or heavy items, especially if done with poor form or without proper warm-up.
- Sudden trauma: Trauma such as falling onto an outstretched arm or directly onto the shoulder can cause a rotator cuff tear.
How is Rotator Cuff Injury Diagnosed?
A diagnosis typically begins with a physical examination of the shoulder. A GP or an orthopaedic surgeon will look at how the joint moves, test for strength and range of motion, and may perform additional tests designed to check for pain or weakness.
In some cases, further investigation may be needed, and you’ll be referred on for imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI scans, to help confirm the diagnosis or rule out other problems.
What Treatments Are There For Rotator Cuff Injury?
In many cases, rotator cuff injury responds well to non-surgical treatment. Doctors may recommend:
- Rest and activity modification to prevent further irritation
- Ice packs to reduce pain and inflammation
- Over-the-counter medication, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Referral for rotator cuff exercises guided by a physiotherapist
- Corticosteroid injections for persistent inflammation
- In severe cases, surgery may be considered for a torn rotator cuff.
When To Get Help For Your Rotator Cuff Injury
Most mild rotator cuff injuries can improve with time, but it’s important to seek medical advice if:
- Pain lasts more than a few weeks
- You notice increasing weakness in your shoulder or arm
- It becomes difficult to lift or rotate your arm
- You feel clicking, locking, or instability in the joint
- Pain is waking you at night or affecting your sleep
- The injury was due to a fall or sudden trauma.
Why Go Private with Mid Ulster Clinic For Your Rotator Cuff Injury Treatment?
Choosing private care for a rotator cuff injury gives you quicker access to experienced professionals and the reassurance of personalised support throughout your recovery.
- Fast access to specialist clinicians, including our upper limb orthopaedic surgeon.
- Onward referral for imaging, when appropriate.
- A personalised approach to help preserve strength, mobility, and shoulder function.
- Calm, professional surroundings with care tailored to your needs.
Take the next step towards lasting relief and expert support – book your appointment today.
- Medically Reviewed
