Does physiotherapy treat rotator cuff tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of shoulder tendons and muscles that helps lift and rotate the arm. A tear may follow an injury or develop with tendon wear, and it can cause pain, weakness or difficulty reaching overhead. Physiotherapy cannot stitch a torn tendon, but it may improve control by strengthening available muscles and restoring comfortable shoulder movement.

A clinician may first assess strength, range of motion and how the injury happened. Rehabilitation can include pain-aware mobility, shoulder-blade control and gradual resistance work. Some people need an orthopaedic opinion, particularly when weakness began suddenly after trauma or when function remains limited despite a suitable programme.

Arrange an assessment rather than repeatedly testing the shoulder with heavy lifting. Keep the shoulder moving within a comfortable range, follow the prescribed exercises and modify overhead work, carrying and sleeping positions as advised. Tell the therapist about your work, sport and dominant arm so the programme reflects the movements you need to regain.

Seek prompt assessment after a fall or lifting injury that causes sudden weakness, visible deformity or inability to raise the arm. Get urgent help for a cold or discoloured hand, severe swelling, chest pain or breathlessness. Arrange review if pain is escalating, sleep is repeatedly disrupted or strength is not improving as expected.

Ask whether imaging is needed, what the tear appears to involve, and whether rehabilitation or surgical review is appropriate. Clarify which movements are safe, how lifting should progress, and what improvement would justify changing the treatment plan.