Shoulder in : Glenohumeral joint

Shoulder pain is among the most common musculoskeletal complaints, particularly among adults over 40 and those in occupations or sports involving repeated overhead motion. Rotator cuff-related conditions account for a large share of cases, ranging from irritation of the tendons to partial or full tears.

Because the shoulder relies so much on muscular control, rehabilitation plays a central role in recovery for most conditions, whether managed conservatively or after surgery. This page covers the joint's anatomy, common conditions, assessment methods, and general exercise and recovery patterns.

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles — supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis — whose tendons wrap around the shoulder joint and help keep the arm bone centered in its socket while allowing rotation. Does a rotator cuff tear always need surgery? Many partial and even some full-thickness tears, especially in less active or older individuals, are managed successfully with structured exercise; surgery is more often considered for larger tears, significant weakness, or failed conservative care.