The rotator cuff injury occurs as a result of repetitive movements of the shoulder that strain the rotator cuff leading to an injury such as a tear of the muscles or tendons. The purpose of a rotator cuff is to keep the head of the upper arm bone inside your shoulder socket stable when the arm is lifted and rotated.

Some of the common signs of a rotator cuff injury include dull ache, pain, difficulty reaching behind the back, arm weakness, swelling of the shoulder, and a clicking sound when raising the hand. Treatment of a rotator cuff injury is usually through conservative modes including home care, over-the-counter medication and physiotherapy. However, in severe cases, surgery can be recommended, which may include arthroscopic tendon repair (keyhole surgery), tendon transfer, open tendon repair, and shoulder replacement in extreme cases.