What is a rotator cuff tear?
The rotator cuff keeps the ball of the shoulder centred in its socket while the arm moves. It works hardest in throwing and overhead sports.
How it happens in sport
- Repeated throwing, bowling or overhead movement
- A fall on the shoulder or outstretched arm
- Lifting something heavy suddenly
- Gradual wear, more common after 40
Common in: Cricket bowling and throwing, swimming, tennis, badminton, weightlifting.
Symptoms
- Pain at the side or top of the shoulder
- Pain at night, especially lying on that side
- Weakness lifting or rotating the arm
- Clicking or catching
- Losing speed or distance when throwing
How it's diagnosed
The surgeon tests the strength of each tendon. An MRI or ultrasound shows whether the tear is partial or full-thickness, and how big it is.
Do I need surgery?
Partial tears and many tears from wear often do well with rehab. Full-thickness tears from an injury in active people, or tears that stay painful and weak despite rehab, are usually repaired.
Treatment options
- Rehab. Strengthen the cuff and shoulder blade muscles, correct throwing mechanics.
- Keyhole rotator cuff repair. The torn tendon is reattached to the bone with small anchors.
- Injections. Sometimes used to settle pain so rehab can work. Your surgeon will advise.
Recovery timeline
- Weeks 0–6Sling; the surgeon or physio moves the arm for you
- Weeks 6–12Moving the arm yourself, then light strengthening
- Months 3–6Strength and sport-specific work
- Months 6–12Return to throwing and overhead sport after a return-to-play check
Typical times. Your surgeon and physiotherapist will set yours.
Return to play at Recover
Throwing and bowling are rebuilt gradually: distance and effort go up week by week, in our nets for cricketers, until you can play without pain.
Cost and insurance in Gurugram
Keyhole rotator cuff repair in Gurugram usually costs ₹1.1 – 2 lakh. Your exact quote comes in writing after the consultation.
Surgeons who treat this
- Dr Pranshul Bishnoi
MBBS · DNB (Orthopaedics) · ATLS · FIFA Diploma in Sports Medicine
- Dr Chandan Arora
MBBS · MS (Orthopaedics) · Shoulder Fellowship (Seoul)
Rotator cuff tear: FAQs
Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?
Full-thickness tears don't grow back together, but many partial tears and tears from wear stop hurting with good rehab.
How long is recovery after rotator cuff surgery?
The tendon takes months to heal to the bone. Expect a sling for about 6 weeks and 6 to 12 months to full recovery.
How much does rotator cuff surgery cost in Gurugram?
Usually ₹1.1 – 2 lakh. Your exact price comes in writing after the consultation.
Why does my shoulder hurt more at night?
Lying on the shoulder, and the position of the arm during sleep, put pressure on the inflamed tendon. It's a common sign of a cuff problem.
General information, not medical advice. Your surgeon will advise on your own treatment. If you can't put weight on a limb, or have numbness or severe pain, go to an emergency department.