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What is Rotator Cuff Injury?

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March 2026 | By Dr. P. Ravi Shankar

Why does lifting my arm hurt more than keeping it still?” It's because of the rotator cuff it is a group of muscles around the shoulder that helps lift and rotate your arm. Injury usually happens due to overuse, heavy lifting, or sudden jerky movements.

Symptoms
● Shoulder pain while lifting the arm
● Difficulty reaching overhead
● Weakness in the shoulder
● Pain while sleeping on one side

What you should do
● Rest your shoulder and avoid painful movements
● Do the exercises taught by your physiotherapist regularly
● Keep your shoulder moving gently within pain-free range
● Apply ice for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day if there is pain
● Maintain good posture while sitting and standing
● Use your other hand for overhead activities
● Sleep on the unaffected side with a pillow supporting the injured arm
● Take medications only as prescribed by the doctor
● Attend regular physiotherapy sessions
What you should not do
● Do not lift heavy objects
● Do not perform overhead or sudden jerky movements
● Do not continue activities that increase pain
● Do not sleep on the affected shoulder
● Do not skip exercises or stop treatment suddenly
● Avoid slouching or rounded shoulder posture

Why does lifting my arm hurt more than keeping it still?” This might due to the shoulder tendons are irritated or strained during lifting movements!

Consult a healthcare professional before starting exercises.

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