Overview
A rotator cuff injury includes inflammation, strains and partial tears of the four tendons that stabilise your shoulder. These injuries develop gradually through overuse or occur suddenly through trauma. Early intervention prevents progression to complete tears and ensures optimal healing.
Common symptoms
- Aching pain in the shoulder, especially at night
- Weakness when lifting or reaching
- Limited range of motion and stiffness
- Cracking or popping sensation during movement
- Significant reduction in range of movement
The procedure
Depending on severity, Mr Mitra may recommend physiotherapy, steroid injections, or arthroscopic surgery. For surgical repair, small incisions allow access to the damaged tendon. The repair uses specialised anchors to reattach the tendon to bone with minimal tissue disruption.
Recovery
Non-surgical treatment involves rest, ice, physiotherapy and anti-inflammatories with results in 6-12 weeks. Surgical cases require protected immobilisation for 4 weeks, followed by physiotherapy. Importantly, physiotherapy begins on the day of surgery to restore motion gradually. Most patients return to full activity by 4-6 months with structured rehabilitation.
Quick facts
Assessment time
30-45 minutes
Treatment type
Varies (conservative or surgical)
Recovery time
6-12 weeks (non-surgical), 4-6 months (surgical)
Conservative success rate
80%
Covered by all major UK insurers. No GP referral needed for self-pay.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Your recovery pathway
From your first appointment to full recovery, here’s exactly what to expect — so you know every step before you even book.
01
You get seen
Initial consultation and examination with Mr Mitra to confirm your diagnosis.
ANAESTHETIC & PATIENT COMFORT
Dr Khandelwal – Consultant Anaesthetist
Working in close clinical partnership with Mr Aveek Mitra, Dr Khandelwal specialises in advanced regional nerve blocks and bespoke sedation pathways, ensuring maximum surgical comfort and rapid same-day recovery.
MORE SPECIALISMS
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