Rotator cuff tear

Updated: 2023-08-04

Description

A tear in the tissues connecting muscle to bone, called tendons, around the shoulder joint.

Overview

A rotator cuff tear occurs in the group of tissues connecting muscle to bone, called tendons, around the shoulder joint. Rotator cuff injuries are common and often occur in people who repeatedly perform the same shoulder motions.

Symptoms

Symptoms include shoulder pain and weakness. The pain can be a dull ache that often worsens at night and disrupts sleep.

Treatments

Treatment includes rest, medicines, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections and possibly surgery.