Overview
Tendons wear with age and overuse, or tear in a fall.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Shoulder pain, worse lifting the arm or at night
- Pain lifting the arm overhead
Less common
- Weakness
When to get medical care
Call 911Shoulder pain with chest pressure or shortness of breath.
Get care todaySudden weakness after a fall.
See a doctor soonPain over 2 weeks.
Causes
Wear, overuse, falls.
Who is more likely to get it
- Over 40
- Painters, carpenters
Diagnosis
A clinician checks shoulder strength.
The exam
Testing motion and strength.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- MRI or ultrasound:
Treatment
Rest and rebuild.
Self-care
- Avoid overhead lifting
- Use ice
- Do gentle exercises
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pain relievers | Pain and swelling | Ask first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Physical therapy, injections, or surgery.
Prevention
To prevent it:
- Strengthen shoulders
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).
Back to school, work, or sports
- Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.
Outlook
Most improve with therapy.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Rotator cuff injury
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.