Rotator Cuff Tears: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
We diagnose and treat rotator cuff tears using the latest non-surgical and minimally invasive surgical techniques, so you can lift, reach and sleep more comfortably.
What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that keep the shoulder stable and help you lift and rotate your arm. A tear happens when one or more tendons are damaged or pulled off the bone. This leads to pain, weakness and limited movement.
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear
- Shoulder pain, especially when lifting or reaching overhead
- Weakness or difficulty lifting items
- Pain when sleeping on the affected shoulder
- Crackling or clicking with movement
- Limited range of motion or stiffness
If you also feel a sharp pain on the outer shoulder with overhead tasks, read about shoulder impingement.
What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?
Rotator cuff tears can occur suddenly or develop gradually over time.
Common Causes
- Injury from a fall or lifting something heavy
- Repetitive overhead use in sport or work
- Age-related wear and tear (more common over 40)
- Bone spurs that rub on the tendon
How We Diagnose a Rotator Cuff Tear
We start with your story and a focused shoulder exam. You may be asked to perform simple movements to check strength and flexibility. Imaging helps confirm the diagnosis:
- Ultrasound – shows tendons moving in real time
- MRI – details the size and location of the tear
- X-ray – looks for bone spurs or arthritis
Where appropriate, we coordinate physiotherapy early to maintain safe motion while tests are arranged.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Care
Many partial tears improve without surgery.
- Short period of rest and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medication as appropriate
- Physiotherapy to strengthen the shoulder blade and cuff muscles
- Targeted cortisone injections for pain relief when needed
Surgical Care
If pain and weakness persist or if the tear is large, surgery may be recommended. Most procedures are performed using arthroscopy (keyhole surgery):
- Tendon repair – reattaching the torn tendon to bone
- Subacromial decompression – removing bone spurs if present
- Debridement – cleaning frayed tissue in selected cases
In cuff-tear arthritis or irreparable tears, a reverse shoulder replacement may be considered.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
- Non-surgical: usually 6–12 weeks with guided rehab
- After surgery: sling for protection (typically 4–6 weeks), then staged physio; full recovery commonly 3–6 months depending on tear size and healing
Physiotherapy is essential to regain motion and strength. We provide a graded program and monitor progress to keep you safe and on track.
When to Seek Help
- Pain that doesn’t settle with rest and simple measures
- Weakness or loss of function limiting work, sport or daily life
- Night pain or difficulty sleeping on the shoulder
Preventing Rotator Cuff Injuries
- Warm up and stretch before sport
- Build shoulder and scapular strength with regular exercises
- Avoid repetitive overhead strain and poor technique
- Use proper lifting methods close to the body
Related Conditions & Resources
- Shoulder Impingement
- Shoulder Arthritis
- Shoulder Replacement (including Reverse)
- Our Shoulder Surgeons & Physiotherapists
External resources for additional reading:
Rotator Cuff — FAQs
Do all rotator cuff tears need surgery?
No. Many partial tears improve with physiotherapy, activity changes and targeted injections. Surgery is considered if pain and weakness persist.
How do I know if my tear is large?
Imaging (ultrasound or MRI) shows tear size and tendon quality, which helps us plan the right treatment.
How soon can I return to sport?
Non-surgical care: often 6–12 weeks with graded return. After surgical repair: typically 3–6 months depending on tear size, healing and your sport.