The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that help to stabilize the shoulder joint. These muscles and their associated tendons can become worn and tear from overuse. The symptoms of a rotator cuff injury can include:
- Dull ache deep in the shoulder
- Arm weakness
- Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the body.
Conservative treatments for rotator cuff injury include rest, physical therapy, and resistance training to strengthen the rotator cuff muscles. Strong and active rotator cuff muscles are better at stabilizing the shoulder joint and reduce the risk of shoulder impingement.
In cases where the tear is significant and conservative treatments are not enough, surgery to repair the torn tendons may be an option. Rotator cuff repair surgery usually consists of placing suture overtop of the torn tendon and securing it to the bone using suture anchors. This procedure is typically done arthroscopically.

