Rotator Cuff Injuries: Diagnosis, Treatment and Getting Back to Sport

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint and allow the full range of shoulder movement. Rotator cuff injuries — ranging from tendinopathy to partial or full-thickness tears — are among the most common musculoskeletal complaints seen by physiotherapists in the UK.

Types of rotator cuff injury

Rotator cuff injuries exist on a spectrum: Tendinopathy involves degeneration of the tendon without a significant tear. Partial tears involve damage to part of the tendon thickness. Full-thickness tears represent a complete rupture, which may or may not require surgical repair.

Symptoms to watch for

• Pain in the outer shoulder and upper arm, especially when lifting or reaching overhead
• Night pain, particularly when lying on the affected side
• Weakness when lifting the arm
• A painful arc of movement between 60° and 120° of shoulder elevation

Conservative (non-surgical) rehabilitation

Research consistently shows that physiotherapy is as effective as surgery for most rotator cuff injuries. A structured rehabilitation programme focuses on restoring range of movement, strengthening the rotator cuff and periscapular muscles, correcting biomechanical deficits, and a graduated return to sport or activity.

If you have shoulder pain that's affecting your daily activities or sports performance, book an assessment with our musculoskeletal physiotherapy team at PhysioRevive.