New developments in the treatment of rotator cuff injuries offer hope for a pain-free future Lighten the load S houlder pain affects up to a quarter of the population in the UK. By far the most common cause of the pain (around 70%) is a problem with the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff refers to the deep muscles and tendons found around the relatively shallow ball and socket joint of the shoulder. These merge to form a 'cuff' of tissue around the joint, and are involved in creating extra stability and facilitating movement (including the 'rotation') of the joint. Over the top of the shoulder joint, there's a bone called the acromion. Between the shoulder joint and the acromion is a narrow gap called the subacromial space, through which the rotator cuff tendons pass. In this space is a fluid-filled sac called the subacromial bursa, which cushions your tendons and allows them to glide under the acromion as the shoulder moves. 'An acute tear will often result in difficulty lifting up the arm' What can go wrong with the rotator cuff? Problems with the soft tissue of the rotator cuff can include inflammation (swelling and soreness) of the tendons and bursa, and damage or tearing of the tendons. Pain arising from rotator cuff problems is usually felt in the upper outer part of the arm, particularly when lifting the arm up from the side and when lying on the arm, for example at night. The arm is often reasonably comfortable when at rest by the side. 21100-104857 GavinJenningsDPS.indd 38 27/01/2015 16:30