Rotator Cuff Conditions

The “rotator cuff” are a group of small muscles that hold the ball of the shoulder in place against the glenoid socket. They function to initiate movement and keep the shoulder elongated during motion, allowing the larger shoulder muscles to work more efficiently.

Conditions affecting the rotator cuff include inflammation (tendonitis), partial thickness tendon tears, and full thickness tendon tears. Tears may occur in overhead athletes, following trauma, or may be age related.

Problems of the rotator cuff can cause pain with movement, affecting daily activities such as reaching overhead, driving and sleep. Larger tears, involving more of the rotator cuff muscles, may cause weakness and restrict shoulder motion.