Rotator cuff problems are one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. They can come on gradually from overhead work, gym training or racquet sports, or suddenly after a fall or heavy lift.
About rotator cuff injury
The four rotator cuff tendons wrap around the top of the arm bone and keep the ball centred in the socket. When they are overloaded, they can become painful and weaker; with age, tendons can also develop wear-related tears that may or may not cause pain.
Common causes
- Repeated overhead activity at work, in the gym or in sport
- A sudden increase in training or lifting
- Falls onto an outstretched arm
- Age-related tendon changes, common from the 40s onwards
Signs and symptoms
- Pain on the outside of the upper arm
- Pain lifting the arm sideways or overhead
- Pain lying on the shoulder at night
- Weakness, especially after an injury
How physiotherapy helps
- Load management so you can keep active without flaring the pain
- Progressive strengthening of the rotator cuff and shoulder blade muscles
- Hands-on treatment and dry needling for pain relief
- Technique advice for lifting, sport and overhead work
- Rehabilitation after rotator cuff repair
How long does recovery take?
Tendon pain often improves over 6 to 12 weeks of consistent exercise. Recovery after rotator cuff surgery is longer, commonly four to six months or more, following your surgeon’s protocol.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor promptly if you suddenly cannot lift your arm after a fall or injury, as a significant tear may need an early surgical opinion.
Book an assessment for rotator cuff injury in Ilford.
Common questions
Can a torn rotator cuff heal without surgery?
Many partial and wear-related tears become pain-free with strengthening, even though the tear itself remains. Large tears after an injury in younger, active people may need a surgical opinion.
Should I stop going to the gym?
Usually not completely. We adjust which exercises you do and how heavy, so you keep training while the tendon settles.
Why does my shoulder hurt more at night?
Lying on the shoulder compresses the irritated tendon. Sleeping on the other side with a pillow supporting the painful arm often helps.
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