Why Does My Shoulder Hurt? Could It Be a Rotator Cuff Tear?

Why Does My Shoulder Hurt? Could It Be a Rotator Cuff Tear?

A rotator cuff tear happens when one or more of the four tendons stabilising the shoulder become damaged, either suddenly through a fall or impact, or gradually through wear and tear. It's surprisingly common with age, affecting around 30% of people over 60 and more than half of those over 80, often without symptoms. Physiotherapy is highly effective for most tears, with surgery generally reserved for more severe cases and reporting success rates above 95% for small tears.

What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

Rotator cuff injuries are one of the most common causes of shoulder pain seen in clinic. While they're often associated with sport, you don't need to be an athlete to experience one. Everyday movements, repetitive strain, or even age-related changes can all play a role.

Your shoulder is designed for movement, but it relies on stability to function properly in daily activities like driving, lifting, and getting dressed.

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint and allow smooth arm movement. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of these tendons are damaged, either partially or completely.

This can happen due to:

• A sudden injury, such as a fall or impact
• Repetitive strain over time from daily or sporting activities

What Are the Common Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury?

A rotator cuff tear can present in several ways, often worsening over time if left untreated. Key symptoms include:

• A deep, dull ache in the shoulder
• Pain that worsens at night or with movement
• Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
• Reduced range of motion
• Clicking or popping sensations

What Causes Rotator Cuff Tears?

Rotator cuff injuries typically develop in one of two ways: acute injuries or degenerative changes.

Acute injuries can include:

• Falling onto an outstretched arm
• Sudden impact (e.g. rugby tackle or accident)

Degenerative changes often are:

• Wear and tear over time
• Repetitive overhead movements
• More common in people over 60

Risk factors can be:

• Ageing
• Physically demanding jobs (e.g. painters, electricians, carpenters)
• Repetitive overhead sports or activities

How Common Are Rotator Cuff Tears?

Rotator cuff tears are very common, particularly as we age.

• Around 30% of people over 60 are affected
• Over 50% of people aged 80+ may have a tear
• Many cases are asymptomatic, meaning no obvious pain

How Can a Rotator Cuff Tear Affect Daily Life?

Without treatment, a rotator cuff injury can significantly impact your quality of life. Common effects include:

• Difficulty reaching overhead (e.g. shelves, washing hair)
• Reduced strength when lifting or carrying
• Pain during everyday movements like dressing or driving
• Disrupted sleep due to shoulder discomfort

What Sports Commonly Cause Rotator Cuff Injuries?

Certain sports place increased stress on the shoulder due to repetitive or high-impact movements. Higher-risk activities include:

• Throwing sports (cricket, javelin, dodgeball)
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Weightlifting
• Contact sports like rugby and football

What Are the Effective Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Injuries?

There are a range of treatment options available, and the best approach depends on the severity of the injury. A tailored physiotherapy plan will help you recover safely and effectively. Common treatments include:

• Manual therapy to reduce pain and improve mobility
• Exercise rehabilitation to restore strength and function
• Shockwave therapy to stimulate healing
• Acupuncture for pain relief and inflammation
• Ultrasound therapy to support tissue repair
• Injection therapies such as corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation

What Are the Recovery and Success Rates?

Recovery outcomes depend on the severity of the tear and the treatment approach.

• Physiotherapy is highly effective for improving pain and function
• Injections can reduce pain and support rehab progress
• Surgery may be considered in more severe cases (over 95% success for small tears and around 70% success for larger tears)

At Relive Physiotherapy, the goal is always to help clients recover without the need for surgery where possible.

How Can You Prevent Rotator Cuff Injuries?

Taking proactive steps can reduce the risk of injury or recurrence. Prevention tips:

• Strengthen shoulder and upper body muscles
• Use proper technique during sport and lifting
• Avoid repetitive strain where possible
• Seek early treatment for shoulder pain

When Should You Seek Treatment for Shoulder Pain?

If you're experiencing ongoing shoulder pain, weakness, or limited movement, it's important to get an accurate diagnosis early.

Delaying treatment can lead to further damage and a longer recovery time.

Get Expert Help for Rotator Cuff Injuries in Chester

At Relive Physiotherapy, we specialise in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff tears. Our experienced team will create a personalised treatment plan to help you recover quickly and safely.

Don't let shoulder pain limit your daily life. Book your assessment with Relive Physiotherapy today and start your recovery with expert support.

Frequently Asked Questions

How common are rotator cuff tears?

They're very common with age, affecting around 30% of people over 60 and more than half of those over 80. Many tears are asymptomatic, meaning people don't experience noticeable pain.

Do rotator cuff tears always need surgery?

No. Physiotherapy is highly effective for many tears, and surgery is generally only considered for more severe cases. Where surgery is needed, success rates are high, exceeding 95% for small tears.

What are the first signs of a rotator cuff tear?

Common early signs include a deep, dull ache in the shoulder, pain that worsens at night, weakness when lifting or rotating the arm, and reduced range of motion.

Which sports carry the highest risk of rotator cuff injury?

Throwing sports (like cricket or javelin), swimming, tennis, weightlifting, and contact sports such as rugby all place increased stress on the shoulder due to repetitive or high-impact movement.

Can a rotator cuff tear heal without treatment?

It's unlikely to fully resolve on its own, and delaying treatment can lead to further damage and a longer recovery. Early assessment and a tailored treatment plan give the best chance of a full recovery.

About the Author:

Shivani Darira

Senior Specialist Physiotherapist

As a Senior Specialist Physiotherapist at Relive Physiotherapy, Shivani has a particular interest in treating musculoskeletal and sports injuries. She holds an MSc in Sports Medicine from the University of Chester and brings a strong clinical foundation to her work with athletes and active clients alike.

Shivani's approach is guided by the principle that movement aids healing, and she takes a dynamic, personalised approach to every client's recovery journey.

Outside the clinic, Shivani enjoys HipHop and Bollywood dance and is currently learning to swim and play tennis.