When is exercise therapy recommended for rotator cuff tendinitis?

Rotator cuff tendinitis can cause pain at the front or side of the shoulder, especially when the arm moves overhead or away from the body. Assessment helps distinguish a tendon problem from neck-related pain, stiffness or a more serious injury. A programme may combine comfortable mobility, shoulder-blade control and strengthening of the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles.

Start with the range and resistance that allow controlled movement. Your physiotherapist may use supported arm raises, isometric holds and gradual resistance work before adding overhead or work-specific tasks. Keep loads close to the body while symptoms are irritable and avoid repeatedly testing painful overhead movement. Improvement is guided by function and recovery after exercise, not by forcing through pain.

Arrange an assessment if shoulder pain persists, limits dressing or reaching, or causes night discomfort. Seek prompt care after a fall or sudden force that causes immediate weakness, visible deformity, inability to raise the arm, severe swelling, fever with a hot red joint, or new chest pain or breathlessness.

Ask which shoulder movements are appropriate now, how to adjust exercises after a painful day, when overhead lifting can resume, and what weakness requires reassessment.