Rotator cuff injury

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons that stabilize and move the shoulder. Irritation or tearing can cause lateral shoulder pain, night pain, and weakness with lifting away from the body.

What it feels like

Pain with reaching overhead, putting on a coat, or sleeping on the affected side is common.

Some people notice weakness when pouring a coffee pot or lifting the arm out to the side.

Symptoms may start after a fall or build gradually with repetitive load and age-related tendon change.

What is going on

Tendinopathy, partial tearing, and full-thickness tearing sit on a spectrum. Age and vascularity influence healing.

Bursal inflammation often accompanies cuff irritation and adds to night pain.

Not every MRI tear needs surgery. Function, tear size, and goals drive decisions.

How we evaluate

Strength testing of cuff muscles, impingement signs, and cervical screening shape the exam.

X-rays check bony contributors. Ultrasound or MRI defines tear pattern when it would change care.

We separate frozen shoulder stiffness from cuff-predominant weakness early.

What we may offer

Guided strengthening and load management through physical therapy help many tendinopathy and partial-tear patterns.

Subacromial or joint injections may calm selected inflammatory flares. PRP can be discussed for some tendon cases.

Acute traumatic full-thickness tears in active patients, or failed nonoperative care with clear weakness, prompt surgical referral.

Does a rotator cuff tear always need surgery?

No. Many degenerative and partial tears improve with rehab. Acute traumatic tears in active people are more often surgical conversations.

Why is night pain so common?

Bursal irritation and tendon contact with position changes at night frequently flare symptoms.

Can PRP help the rotator cuff?

It may be discussed for selected tendon problems. Expectations and evidence are reviewed in clinic.

How is this different from frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder is mainly global stiffness. Cuff injuries more often feature pain and focal weakness with better preserved passive motion early.