How to refer yourself for rotator cuff pain
If you are looking for rotator cuff pain treatment (NHS) in Bedfordshire, Greenwich, Rushcliffe or North Hampshire, you can self-refer to the Circle Integrated Care MSK service online, by clicking the button below.
Please note that self-referral is not available for patients in S&W Hampshire. If you are looking for a referral for a rotator cuff tear and live in these areas, speak to your GP to request that they give you a referral.
A rotator cuff tear occurs when the muscles around the shoulder (rotator cuff) develop a small hole, usually in the tendon of the muscle. This may be the result of trauma or as a natural part of the ageing process. Although the tear itself won't heal, in the majority of cases, the pain settles over time and the other parts of the rotator cuff are able to strengthen and compensate.
The rotator cuff refers to a group of tendons and muscles in the shoulder which attach the scapula (shoulder blade) to the humeral head (upper arm bone). The rotator cuff muscles provide significant tension across the joint;
- Stabilising the humeral head (ball of the shoulder joint) in the centre of the glenoid (socket of the shoulder joint), allowing for a large range of joint movement.
- Allowing more powerful muscles around the shoulder to provide the tension needed to move the shoulder.