Rotator cuff disorders are irritations in or damage to tendons around your shoulder. This includes inflammation of the tendons (tendinitis) or the bursa (bursitis), a calcium buildup in the tendons, or partial or complete tears of the tendon.

These problems can cause pain and make it hard to move your shoulder. They can happen as you get older and your rotator cuff gradually breaks down.

Sports and activities where you use your arms above your head a lot—such as tennis, swimming, or house painting—are common causes of rotator cuff injury.