The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilise the shoulder joint and allow you to lift, rotate, and reach with your arm. Injuries to this structure are extremely common — whether from sport, overhead work, or the gradual wear that comes with age.
What are the Rotator Cuff Muscles?
The four muscles of the rotator cuff are:
- Supraspinatus — raises the arm away from the body (most commonly injured)
- Infraspinatus — rotates the arm outward
- Teres minor — assists with external rotation
- Subscapularis — rotates the arm inward
Types of Rotator Cuff Injury
Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Overload of the tendons without a discrete tear. Very common in swimmers, overhead athletes, and office workers who carry sustained tension in the shoulder. Causes aching, stiffness, and pain with specific movements.
Rotator Cuff Tear (Partial or Full-Thickness)
A tear in one or more of the tendons, ranging from a small partial thickness tear to a complete rupture. Partial tears often respond well to physiotherapy. Full-thickness tears may require surgery in some patients, but many — particularly in older adults — do well with conservative management.
Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
Where the rotator cuff tendons become compressed under the acromion (the bony arch above the shoulder) during overhead movements. Causes a characteristic "painful arc" of movement.
Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injury
- Pain at the front or side of the shoulder, often radiating to the upper arm
- Pain when lifting the arm to the side or overhead
- Weakness when rotating the arm or reaching behind the back
- Night pain — especially when lying on the affected side
- A feeling of the shoulder "giving way" under load
How Physiotherapy Treats Rotator Cuff Injuries
Comprehensive Shoulder Assessment
Your physiotherapist will identify which structure is involved, assess the degree of injury, test strength and range of movement, and screen for any red flags that would require referral for imaging or orthopaedic consultation.
Pain Management in the Acute Phase
Activity modification, positional advice, and gentle range of motion exercises to maintain mobility without aggravating the injury.
Rotator Cuff Strengthening
Progressive resistance exercise targeting the specific muscles involved. This is the most important part of rehabilitation for both tears and tendinopathy. The programme typically progresses over 8–12 weeks from gentle isometric exercises to full functional and sport-specific loading.
Scapular Control Training
Poor movement of the shoulder blade (scapula) is a contributing factor in most rotator cuff problems. Exercises targeting the serratus anterior and lower trapezius restore normal scapulohumeral rhythm and reduce impingement.
Postural Correction
Rounded shoulders and forward head posture are almost universal findings in patients with rotator cuff problems. Your physiotherapist will address these postural issues as part of a complete rehabilitation programme.
Sports Massage
Release of the pectorals, upper trapezius, and posterior shoulder capsule can significantly improve shoulder mobility and reduce the load on the rotator cuff. Book a physio-led sports massage from £40.
Do I Need Surgery?
Most rotator cuff injuries — including many partial tears — respond well to physiotherapy alone. Full-thickness tears in younger, active patients may warrant surgical discussion, but even then, a trial of physiotherapy is usually recommended first. The research is clear that outcomes after surgery are significantly better when preceded by pre-operative physiotherapy.
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Same-week appointments available. CQC-registered clinic. No GP referral needed.
Book Physio Online 020 8133 5694Book Shoulder Physiotherapy in Surbiton
Lambert Sports Clinic offers specialist shoulder and rotator cuff physiotherapy at our CQC-registered clinic in Surbiton. Same-week appointments available Mon & Tue 10am–6pm, Wed 8:30am–6pm, Thu 10am–6pm, Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 9am–2pm.
Book online or call 020 8133 5694.