Shoulder pain is one of the most common reasons people seek orthopedic care, and rotator cuff injuries are often the culprit. Whether the pain developed suddenly after an injury or gradually over time, a rotator cuff problem can make everyday tasks, like lifting, reaching, or even sleeping, uncomfortable. At Orthopedic & Spine Centers of Wisconsin, our team helps patients of all ages understand their symptoms, find relief, and regain strength and mobility.
What Is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder and control arm movement. These structures keep the upper arm bone securely in the shoulder socket while allowing smooth, controlled motion. When the rotator cuff is injured, it can lead to pain, weakness, and functional limitations that affect daily life and physical activity.
Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries
Rotator cuff injuries can occur in several ways. Overuse is one of the most frequent causes, especially in activities that involve repetitive overhead motion, such as painting, swimming, tennis, or weightlifting. Age-related degeneration plays a major role regardless of previous activities or injury; as we get older, the tendons naturally weaken and become more susceptible to tears. Bone spurs or structural changes in the shoulder may also contribute to rotator cuff irritation or tearing over time.
Acute rotator cuff injuries, such as falling on an outstretched arm, throwing a baseball, serving a tennis ball, or lifting something heavier than expected, can cause sudden tendon damage.
Signs and Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but many patients experience:
- Shoulder pain, especially with lifting or overhead movements
- Weakness when raising or rotating the arm
- Difficulty sleeping
- Clicking or popping sensations
- Limited range of motion
Some tears cause only mild discomfort, while others lead to significant pain and loss of function. Even small tears can worsen without proper care.
How Rotator Cuff Injuries Are Diagnosed
Accurate diagnosis begins with a thorough physical exam to assess strength, mobility, and areas of tenderness. At Orthopedic & Spine Centers of Wisconsin, your provider may also use imaging studies such as X-rays, which help identify bone spurs or structural abnormalities, and MRI scans, which provide a detailed look at the tendons to determine whether a tear is present.
Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Injuries
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury, but many patients improve without surgery. Non-surgical options may include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and restore mobility
- Activity modification to reduce strain
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections to decrease inflammation and pain
When non-surgical care does not provide enough relief, or if the tear is large, your orthopedic specialist may recommend shoulder surgery to improve your symptoms. The type of surgery is dependent on your age, activity level, and integrity of the rotator cuff. At OSCW our physicians perform a full array of shoulder procedures: shoulder arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure used to repair the damaged tendon, total shoulder replacements and reverse total shoulder replacements.
Recovery and Long-Term Outlook
With proper treatment, many patients experience significant improvement in pain and mobility. Physical therapy plays a critical role in recovery, whether treatment is surgical or non-surgical. Strengthening the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizers helps prevent future injury and supports long-term shoulder health.
“Rotator cuff injuries are one of the most frequent causes of shoulder pain I treat, especially in patients who rely on their arms for work, fitness, or daily activities. The good news is that with early evaluation and a customized rotator cuff treatment plan, most people can restore strength, improve shoulder mobility, and prevent long-term damage. When patients seek care promptly, we’re able to offer more effective and less invasive treatment options and help them get back to living without shoulder pain.”
– Kash Ali, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon, Orthopedic & Spine Centers of Wisconsin
When to See a Specialist
You should schedule an evaluation if you have persistent shoulder pain, weakness, difficulty lifting your arm, or trouble sleeping because of shoulder discomfort. Early diagnosis can prevent worsening injury and lead to better outcomes.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a rotator cuff injury, the team at Orthopedic & Spine Centers of Wisconsin is here to help. Schedule a consultation today to get started on a personalized treatment plan that supports your strength, mobility, and overall shoulder health.
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