Listening Time — 30:14

Rotator cuff injuries are common. Their severity can range widely.

In this episode, a shoulder surgeon and a physical therapist identify symptoms of rotator cuff injuries. They also discuss treatments and predict future changes for rotator cuff surgery and rehabilitation.

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Read more about rotator cuff tears.

Richard J. Hawkins, MD, FRCSC, is a world renowned orthopedic surgeon who specializes in the shoulder. He is a co-founder and current program director of the Steadman Hawkins Clinic, and chairman of the Hawkins Foundation. He also is a founding member and past-president of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Society. His work includes service as team physician for the Denver Broncos and the Colorado Rockies professional sports teams.

Chuck Thigpen, PhD, PT, is a clinical research scientist with Proaxis Physical Therapy in South Carolina. He is a also a certified athletic trainer who holds adjunct appointments with Duke University Division of Physical Therapy, University of South Carolina Department of Physical Therapy, and Clemson University Bioengineering. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and book chapters related to preventing and treating shoulder pain. He also presents on topics related to shoulder dysfunction at national and international conferences.