The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint that keep the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) in the shoulder socket and are also involved in shoulder movements.
Repeated overhead arm movements may cause inflammation or a tear in the rotator cuff, producing pain in the shoulder and restricted arm movement.
A minor tear or inflammation can usually be treated with rest, ice packs to reduce inflammation, and over-the-counter pain relievers. A doctor may also sometimes recommend corticosteroid injections and physical therapy.
A severe tear may need to be repaired surgically