Shoulder
Shoulder weakness doesn't have to mean the operating table.
Rotator cuff injuries range from tendinopathy to partial and full tears. Most respond to structured strengthening — even partial tears often avoid surgery with the right rehab.
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Common symptoms
- —Weakness with arm elevation or rotation
- —Pain with overhead activity or reaching behind the back
- —Night pain on the affected side
- —A feeling of the shoulder giving way under load
Common causes
- —Repetitive overhead activity (swimming, throwing, overhead gym work)
- —Age-related tendon degeneration
- —Trauma or fall onto the shoulder
- —Poor scapular control creating subacromial impingement
How Stance approaches rotator cuff injury
We measure rotator cuff strength objectively using VALD Dynamo and design a personalised loading programme. We also address scapular stability and thoracic mobility — the upstream factors that reduce impingement and create the space the rotator cuff needs to function.
Relevant services
Pain & Injury Recovery
Assessment-led recovery for musculoskeletal pain — whether it's chronic, recurring, or from a specific incident. We find the root cause and build a targeted, progressive plan.
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
Structured, phased rehabilitation after orthopaedic surgery. We use objective criteria — not just the calendar — to progress you through each stage of recovery.
Frequently asked questions
Will I need surgery for a rotator cuff tear?
Not necessarily. Partial tears and even small full-thickness tears frequently respond to structured physiotherapy. Surgery is considered after 3–6 months of quality conservative management.
Can I lift weights with a rotator cuff injury?
Yes — with modification. We'll guide you on which movements to continue, adapt, or pause.
Ready to find the root cause?
Our clinical team uses objective testing to build a personalised plan around your specific needs.
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