Rotator Cuff Disorders

Rotator cuff disorders are irritations in or damage to tendons around your shoulder. This includes inflammation of the tendons (tendinitis) or the bursa (bursitis), a calcium buildup in the tendons, or partial or complete tears of the tendon.

These problems can cause pain and make it hard to move your shoulder. They can happen as you get older and your rotator cuff gradually breaks down.

Sports and activities where you use your arms above your head a lot—such as tennis, swimming, or house painting—are common causes of rotator cuff injury.

Credits

By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: October 9, 2012
Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Timothy Bhattacharyya, MD

© 1995-, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.