Which specialist treats a rotator cuff tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons that helps move and steady the shoulder. An orthopaedic specialist reviews how the injury happened, tests strength and movement, and decides whether imaging is needed. Shoulder pain, pain when lifting the arm, night pain or muscle weakness can have several causes, so symptoms alone do not confirm a tear.

Treatment depends on the tear, symptoms, activity needs and examination findings. A physiotherapist can restore movement and build shoulder control. Rotator cuff repair is an operation that may be discussed when an injury, weakness or loss of function makes non-surgical care unsuitable or insufficient.

Avoid movements that sharply increase pain, particularly repeated overhead lifting, but keep the elbow, wrist and shoulder moving gently within comfort. Note the injury mechanism, changes in strength, sleep disruption and tasks you can no longer perform. Bring previous scan reports and a list of medicines.

A primary-care clinician can arrange an initial assessment or referral. Do not test the shoulder repeatedly through severe pain. A physiotherapy plan should follow an examination, especially after a fall or a sudden loss of power.

Seek prompt assessment after a fall, lifting injury or sudden shoulder weakness, particularly if you cannot raise the arm. Get urgent care for a visibly deformed shoulder, a cold or numb hand, severe swelling, chest symptoms or pain after a major injury. Ongoing shoulder pain or night pain also deserves review when it limits sleep or daily use.

Does my examination suggest a tear or another shoulder problem? Do I need imaging? What activity is safe now? Could physiotherapy improve strength and movement? When would rotator cuff repair be considered, and what would recovery involve?