Rotator Cuff Tendinitis and Tears

Applies to: Shoulder

Rotator Cuff Tendinitis and Tears

Around your shoulder joint, there’s a group of muscles and tendons called the rotator cuff. If these get injured, it’s called Rotator Cuff Tendinitis, which can lead to tears, swelling, and pain. Athletes, especially those who do a lot of overhead movements like swimming or tennis, often face this problem. But really, anyone who does repetitive motions like painting or lifting objects can end up with rotator cuff tendinitis.

You might know if you have Rotator Cuff Tendinitis if you feel pain from the front of your shoulder down to the side of your arm when you lift it, lower it from a high position, or even relax.

To treat Rotator Cuff Tendinitis, you might start with simple things like rest and alternating heat and ice. But if it’s severe and not responding to home treatments, your provider might talk to you about surgery as an option.