What is it?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint. Injuries range from tendinopathy (inflammation/degeneration) to partial or complete tears. They are common in manual workers, overhead athletes, and people over 40.
Common causes
- Repetitive overhead activities (painting, construction, cricket)
- Acute injury from a fall on an outstretched arm
- Age-related tendon degeneration
- Poor shoulder blade control and posture
- Shoulder impingement syndrome over time
Signs and symptoms
- Shoulder pain, especially when lifting the arm overhead
- Weakness in the shoulder, particularly external rotation
- Pain at night, especially lying on the affected side
- A painful arc of movement (60–120 degrees)
- Clicking or catching sensation in the shoulder
Physiotherapy treatment at VPARC
- Scapular stabilisation and rotator cuff strengthening exercises
- Manual therapy for joint and soft tissue stiffness
- Postural correction to correct impingement
- Ultrasound or LASER therapy for tendon healing
- Post-surgical rehabilitation for complete tears
What you can do at home
- Avoid painful overhead movements temporarily
- Strengthen with resistance band external rotation exercises
- Maintain shoulder blade posture — avoid rounding forward
- Apply ice after activity to reduce inflammation (15 minutes)
When to visit VPARC
Visit VPARC if shoulder weakness is prominent, if you cannot lift your arm, or if pain does not improve within 4–6 weeks of rest. An urgent review is needed after any shoulder trauma.
Call +91 98896 78838 or read more on our Shoulder Pain Treatment in Varanasi page. This leaflet is general information and does not replace a medical assessment.