Rotator cuff disorders

Rotator cuff disorders are irritations in or damage to tendons around your shoulder. This can include a tendon being squeezed or rubbed against bone (impingement), calcium buildup in the tendons, or a partial or complete tear of the tendons. In some cases, there may be inflammation of the bursa (bursitis) or tendon (tendinitis). You may hear some rotator cuff injuries described as tendinitis, tendinosis, or tendinopathy.

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.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

 
 

PeaceHealth endeavors to provide comprehensive health care information, however some topics in this database describe services and procedures not offered by our providers or within our facilities because they do not comply with, nor are they condoned by, the ethics policies of our organization.

Health Information Library