Rotator Cuff Pain: What It Feels Like and What You Can Do About It
If you've ever felt a sharp pain when lifting your arm, or a dull ache in your shoulder that keeps you up at night, you might be dealing with a rotator cuff issue.
What Is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. They keep your shoulder stable and allow you to lift and rotate your arm. When one or more of these tendons is inflamed or torn, it can result in significant discomfort and limited motion.
Common Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries
- A dull ache deep in the shoulder
- Sharp pain when lifting your arm or reaching overhead
- Weakness in the shoulder or arm
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
- Clicking or popping sounds with movement
Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Pain
- Overuse injuries from repetitive motion (especially overhead)
- Acute trauma from falls or lifting something too heavy
- Degeneration due to aging and tendon wear
- Poor posture or muscle imbalances
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Orthopedic specialists use several tools to evaluate shoulder injuries:
- Physical exam to test your range of motion and pain level
- Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to assess tissue damage
- Strength tests to evaluate function
Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Injuries
Non-Surgical Treatments
Most mild to moderate rotator cuff injuries can be treated without surgery:
- Rest and ice to reduce inflammation
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling
- Activity modification to avoid aggravating motions
Surgical Treatments
In cases of full-thickness tears or failed conservative treatment:
- Arthroscopic surgery to repair torn tendons
- Shoulder decompression if bone spurs are causing impingement
- Reconstruction for severe or chronic cases
Recovery from surgery typically involves 4–6 months of rehabilitation, with a gradual return to full activity.
Rotator Cuff Injury Prevention
- Warm up before activity and stretch after
- Strengthen your shoulder, upper back, and core muscles
- Maintain proper posture throughout the day
- Avoid repetitive overhead movements without rest
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
You should consult a shoulder specialist if:
- Pain persists for more than a few weeks
- You experience weakness or loss of mobility
- Your sleep is disrupted due to shoulder discomfort
- Conservative treatments are not working
Get the Right Diagnosis Today
Ignoring shoulder pain can lead to worsening symptoms and long-term complications. Early evaluation can help you recover faster and avoid unnecessary surgery.
👉 Use OrthoCheck to screen your symptoms and get matched with a qualified orthopedic shoulder specialist near you.
You don’t have to live with shoulder pain. Relief is just a click away — and starts with understanding what your body is telling you.
