Why Your Shoulder Hurts When You Lift Your Arm Shoulder pain while lifting your arm can make even simple daily activities difficult. One of the common causes behind this pain could be a rotator cuff tear, a condition that affects the muscles and tendons that support the shoulder joint. In this video, Dr. Manivannan, Consultant - Orthopaedics, Arthroscopy, & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital Salem, explains the symptoms of rotator cuff tears and the treatment options available.