The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles that attach the bones of the shoulder joint, allowing the shoulder to move while keeping it stable.

Shoulder impingement is common in young athletes and those who are aged 50 and over. It occurs when the rotator cuff muscles around the shoulder become inflamed and it can be a result of falling onto the shoulder or even just overreaching for something. The result is a pain when raising the hand above shoulder height, and it can be difficult sleeping on the affected side.

Rotator cuff tears present similar symptoms as shoulder impingement and can occur without any history of injury to the shoulder. Small tears respond well to physiotherapy, but failure to regain a significant range of movement with physiotherapy may indicate a larger tear. Surgery, which would be an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, may be required. Rehabilitation can take up to a year.

Causes

Rotator cuff injuries are common among young athletes, especially those who use their arms overhead for activities such as swimming, cricket, netball, and tennis. It’s also more common in people with jobs involving repetitive lifting or overhead activities using the arm, such as construction, stacking shelves or painting.

The condition can also be a result of a minor injury, or even with no apparent cause.