Should i abandon upper body exercises while i have a strained rotator cuff?

Absolutely not!: The best exercises to help a strained rotator cuff is shoulder blade and upper back exercises. Scapular retractions (holding the back tips of the shoulder blades together) for 3 sets of 2 minutes at a time will reduce the load on the rotator cuff. It will allow the shoulder to heal much quicker. This is a tip that should be taken up with every patient with a shoulder injury!

Modified exercise: Initial management of a rotator cuff strain should include a period of avoidance of painful activities. Usually overhead lifting, or heavy weights aggravate symptoms the most. Other treatments, like use & nsaids, help. As pain lessens, increase activity. If tolerated, progress. If not, consult with a shoulder specialist.