Rotator cuff injuries are fairly common and as you get older, your risk for this type of injury increases.

When Mary Jane Samuels bone spur created a tear in her rotator cuff, it caused more than just pain. "You get a pain right about here in the middle here, really bad and then you can't move your arm the way you normally do."

Treatment for shoulder problems generally require altering your current activities, rest and physical therapy. However in some cases like Mary Jane's, surgery may be required. "I had a rotator cuff repaired. I'm just very happy with my results."

The first step in rehabilitating the rotator cuff after surgery is working on regaining your range of motion. Orthopedic Surgeon John Kagan says that type of work is all up to the patient. "Mary Jane is doing well. The goal is to return them to their normal lifestyle. There's still a lot of involvement requiring exercise and therapy."

Mary Jane says she's happy that she no longer has shoulder pain, and most importantly, that she has her range of motion back. "With the surgery as you can see, I have perfect range."

The rotator cuff is usually involved in your shoulder problem if the pain is in the front or outside of the shoulder and it worsens when you raise your arm or try to lift something above your head.

It is recommended that you see your doctor as soon as possible if you have severe shoulder pain or you're unable to use your arm, especially if it has lasted for more than a week.