Rotator Cuff Problems: Physical Therapy in Mineola, NY

MULLIGAN CONCEPT

Rotator Cuff Problems

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that steady the shoulder and help you lift and rotate the arm. Strains, irritation and partial tears are very common, especially after 40. At Enhanced Physical Therapy in Mineola, we use Mulligan mobilization with movement to reduce pain and improve motion, then progressively strengthen the cuff, with or without surgery.

Certified Mulligan Practitioner Over 10 Years of Experience

Our clinics director is a Certified Mulligan Practitioner (CMP) with over a decade
of experience using this evidence-based approach. Each treatment is customized to
your specific diagnosis and movement limitations to achieve optimal outcomes.

Common signs of rotator cuff problems

Shoulder pain lifting or rotating the arm
Weakness lifting objects away from the body
Pain at night, especially lying on the shoulder
Pain reaching behind your back
Clicking or catching

What causes it

Rotator cuff problems range from overload of the tendon to partial or full tears. Age, repetitive overhead work, falls onto the arm and sudden heavy lifting are common causes. Many partial tears respond well to exercise.

How we examine it

Before any hands-on treatment, we ask about your health and screen for anything that needs a doctor first. We test strength, motion and specific rotator cuff tests, and look for signs of a large tear that needs a surgeon's opinion. Then we test Mulligan glides to find a pain-free direction.

Mulligan techniques we use

Posterolateral glide MWM. A gentle glide of the top of the arm bone while you lift your arm.
Rotation MWM. A glide while you turn the arm out or in.
Mulligan taping. Tape that supports pain-free movement during the day.

What the research says

A 2025 meta-analysis of four trials (160 people) found adding MWM to conventional therapy improved pain, function, movement and joint position sense in rotator cuff problems, though not quality of life. The review is small, so we see MWM as a helpful addition to strengthening.

What else is in your treatment plan

Your plan includes MWM for pain and motion, progressive rotator cuff and shoulder blade strengthening and a structured return to work or sport. After surgery, we follow your surgeon's protocol.

How long recovery takes

Strains and partial tears often improve over 6 to 12 weeks. Recovery after rotator cuff surgery usually takes 4 to 6 months.

If you are over 65

Rotator cuff tears become much more common with age, and many people over 65 have tears that cause little trouble once the shoulder is strong. An exercise program is often the first choice before surgery. We focus on reaching, carrying groceries and sleeping more comfortably.

When to see a doctor first

Call your doctor, or get urgent care, if you have any of the following:

Sudden loss of the ability to lift the arm after a fall or lift
Shoulder pain with chest pain or shortness of breath: call 911
A hot, swollen shoulder or fever
Numbness or weakness down the arm
Visible deformity after an injury

Rotator cuff problems treatment near Mineola

Enhanced Physical Therapy is at 137 Willis Ave, Suite 100, Mineola, NY 11501, a short walk from NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island. We see patients from Mineola, Garden City, Williston Park, New Hyde Park, Carle Place, Westbury, Albertson and Manhasset, and across central Nassau County.

Frequently asked questions

Can a rotator cuff tear heal without surgery?

Many partial tears, and some full tears in older adults, do well with physical therapy. Large or traumatic tears in active people may need a surgeon's opinion.

Can I lift weights with a rotator cuff problem?

Usually yes, with the right exercises and loads. We guide your progression.

Do you treat patients after rotator cuff surgery?

Yes. We follow your surgeon's protocol and keep their office updated.

How long does rotator cuff physical therapy take?

Usually 6 to 12 weeks without surgery, and several months after surgery.

Written and clinically reviewed by Jacob Kurian, PT, MSPT, CMP, DPT, Certified Mulligan Practitioner, Enhanced Physical Therapy, Mineola NY. Last updated October 14, 2026.

Move Better, Feel Better

If this is limiting your work, sleep or activity, call Enhanced Physical Therapy at (516) 833-5880 to book an evaluation with Jacob Kurian, Certified Mulligan Practitioner. Mulligan treatment may help reduce pain and improve movement, and we will tell you honestly what to expect.