What it is
The rotator cuff stabilises the shoulder joint and enables movement in all directions. Tears may be acute (traumatic) or chronic (age-related degeneration). Not all tears require surgery.
Common symptoms
- Pain with overhead activities
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- Night pain, especially lying on the affected side
- Difficulty with activities of daily living like combing hair or reaching a back pocket
When to see a specialist
If symptoms persist despite initial rest and simple measures, are severe, or are affecting daily activities, an assessment can help clarify diagnosis and treatment options. Bring any previous imaging or notes to your consultation.
Treatment considerations
Whether surgical repair or structured physiotherapy is appropriate depends on tear type and size, patient age, activity requirements, tissue quality on MRI, and response to conservative treatment.
⚠ When further assessment is important
Contact us if you experience severe pain, sudden loss of function, fever, unexplained weight loss, or any concerning new symptom. Not every condition requires surgery — treatment is decided together after clinical examination and imaging review.
Rehabilitation: → Rotator cuff rehabilitation at VBJ
Dr. Vijay Chandar R.
15+ years of clinical practice with a focus on knee replacement, ACL and sports knee injuries, arthroscopy and shoulder surgery. Consultations at VBJ Bone & Joint Clinic, Kanakapura Road. Read full profile →
Explore treatment and rehabilitation
Read about the care options related to this condition. The appropriate treatment depends on your assessment; not every condition requires surgery.
Related information
Need an orthopaedic assessment?
Bring any recent X-rays, MRI reports or medical reports. We’ll examine you, review your imaging and recommend an appropriate treatment path.