Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment
Rotator Cuff Treatment
Your rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround your shoulder joint, providing stability and enabling rotation. When one or more of these tendons tears, either partially or completely, it affects your shoulder’s strength and function. Tears can happen from a fall onto an outstretched arm, lifting something too heavy, or from repetitive overhead activities. Sometimes they develop gradually as tendons degenerate with age and wear. You might hear a pop when an acute tear happens, followed by severe pain and immediate weakness.
Here’s what you need to know: not all rotator cuff tears require surgery. In fact, many people achieve excellent function with rotator cuff tear treatment through conservative management alone. The decision depends on factors like your age, activity level, the size and location of the tear, and your symptoms.
Book Now
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear
- Deep ache in the shoulder, often worse at night
- Pain when lifting your arm above your head or reaching behind your back
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- Difficulty with everyday tasks like getting dressed or reaching overhead
- A crackling or clicking sensation when moving the shoulder
- Pain that radiates down the upper arm
- Limited range of movement in the shoulder joint
Treatment focuses on building muscular support around the shoulder to compensate for the damaged tendon, with a progressive strengthening programme targeting your rotator cuff, scapular stabilisers, and deltoid. Manual therapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy manage pain and address the compensatory tension that builds in your neck and upper back when protecting your shoulder.
Why Choose True Physio?
If you’ve had surgical repair, early rehabilitation prioritises protecting the repair before gradually introducing strengthening. Sports therapy becomes invaluable as you progress toward returning to full activity.
At True Physio, we deliver personalised care at every stage of your rotator cuff recovery. Starting with a detailed assessment, we identify the tear’s impact and any underlying imbalances contributing to your symptoms. Your rehabilitation plan combines targeted exercises to rebuild strength and shoulder function with hands-on treatment, and if surgery is involved, our expert post-op rehab guides you safely back to full activity. We monitor your progress closely throughout, ensuring the best possible outcomes for lasting recovery. Book an appointment and let’s get your shoulder sorted.
Book Now