Overview
Rotator cuff disease includes tendinopathy, impingement, and tears of the rotator cuff tendons in the shoulder. It can cause pain and weakness with overhead activity.

Causes and risk factors
Overuse, age‑related degeneration, trauma, and poor shoulder mechanics contribute.

Symptoms
Shoulder pain, especially with lifting the arm, weakness, and night pain.

Diagnosis
Physical exam and imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to evaluate tendon integrity.

Treatment
Activity modification, physical therapy, NSAIDs, and corticosteroid injections. Surgery may be required for significant tears or persistent dysfunction.

When to seek care
Persistent shoulder pain or weakness, especially after injury, warrants evaluation.