A rotator cuff tear is when one or more of the four small muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint become partially or completely torn. These muscles help lift and rotate the arm and keep the shoulder joint stable. A tear can happen suddenly due to injury or develop gradually over time due to wear and tear. It can cause pain, weakness, and reduced shoulder movement.

An analogy…

Think of the rotator cuff like the strings on a puppet, they keep everything aligned and moving smoothly. If one of those strings snaps or frays, the puppet (your arm) doesn’t move properly anymore, it might feel weak, painful, or unstable.

What are other names that a rotator cuff tear can be referred to?

Torn Rotator Cuff, Rotator Cuff Strain, Supraspinatus Tear, Supraspinatus Strain

What causes a rotator cuff tear?

The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, and teres minor. These muscles form a cuff around the shoulder joint and are key in stabilising and controlling movement. A tear can occur from acute trauma like a fall or heavy lift, or through chronic overuse and degeneration, especially with repetitive overhead movements. Tears most commonly involve the supraspinatus tendon, which runs through a narrow space and is prone to compression and irritation.

What are the signs and symptoms of a rotator cuff tear?

• Shoulder pain, especially when lifting the arm or sleeping on the injured side
• Weakness in the shoulder, particularly during lifting or rotating movements
• Limited range of motion
• A feeling of catching or clicking in the joint
• In severe tears, you might be unable to lift the arm above shoulder height
• Pain may be sharp after an injury or dull and aching if it’s a degenerative tear

What tests are used to diagnose a rotator cuff tear?

Drop Arm Test: This test checks for a full-thickness rotator cuff tear, especially in the supraspinatus muscle. The patient lifts their arm out to the side (abduction) and slowly lowers it. If the arm drops suddenly or can’t be controlled, or if the movement causes pain or weakness, the test is considered positive.

Empty Can Test: This test targets the supraspinatus tendon. The patient holds their arm out in front at about a 45-degree angle (like pouring out a can), with the thumb pointing downward. The practitioner applies gentle downward pressure. If this causes pain or weakness, it may indicate supraspinatus strain or tear.

How long does a rotator cuff tear take to heal?

Recovery depends on whether the tear is partial or full, and whether it’s treated non-surgically or surgically. Partial tears often improve in 6 to 12 weeks with rehab. Full-thickness tears that require surgery may take 3 to 6 months or more to fully recover. Return to sport or heavy lifting can take up to 9 months, especially if surgery is involved.

How does a rotator cuff tear happen?

• Repetitive overhead work or sport
• Poor shoulder posture or biomechanics
• Heavy lifting or sudden pulling movements
• Trauma
• Previous shoulder injuries or weakness in stabilising muscles

What treatment can help a rotator cuff tear?

• Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve joint alignment
• Targeted rotator cuff and scapular strengthening exercises
• Postural correction and ergonomic changes

What exercises or stretches can I do for a rotator cuff tear?

• Isometric rotator cuff holds
• Scapular stabilisation exercises
• Resistance band external and internal rotations
• Wall walks and pendulum exercises
• Postural drills and core work

What products can help with a rotator cuff tear?

• Trigger Ball
• KT Pilates Band Pack