A visual explanation of the rotator cuff and how progressive exercise can help with painful reaching, lifting and shoulder use.
What is it?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that help move and control the shoulder. Tendon-related pain commonly affects reaching or lifting. Pain does not necessarily mean a tear, and scan findings do not always explain symptoms.
- Pain with reaching or lifting
- Discomfort lying on the shoulder
- Reduced tolerance for overhead tasks
How physiotherapy may help
Match the diagnosis
Check shoulder movement, strength and other possible pain sources.
Train the shoulder
Use progressive resistance and movement-control exercises matched to tolerance.
Adjust the load
Temporarily change demanding tasks, then rebuild lifting and sport capacity.
Everyday approach
Keep the shoulder moving within a manageable range. Rather than avoiding all use, reduce the most provocative loads and build them back gradually. Your physiotherapist can help decide how much discomfort is acceptable.
What to keep in mind
Hands-on care may ease symptoms in the short term but should not replace rehabilitation. Imaging or medical referral may be appropriate after trauma, with marked weakness or when progress is not as expected.
General educational information, not a diagnosis or personal treatment plan. For an emergency in Australia, call 000.