ROTATOR CUFF

The rotator cuff is the group of muscles that surround the glenohumeral joint (ball) of the shoulder.  It helps to stabilize and hold the shoulder in place.

  • It is critical for proper shoulder motion and stability – These are small muscles, 4 that attach to the shoulder.  They are not the large muscles of the shoulder, but often play a more important role than the large shoulder muscles themselves.
  • Can be injured by repetitive overuse injuries or a trauma.

What Symptoms Can It Produce

  • Ache or pain within the shoulder joint. 
  • Decrease in your normal shoulder range of motion.
  • Difficulty with overhead movements or excessive arm movements.
  • Pain laying on affected side.
  • You may also notice muscle weakness if the injury is more severe.
  • As you age, you are also at a higher risk of developing this type of injury.

What to Do

  • Treatment depends on what type of injury, and which specific rotator cuff is injured.
  • In the majority of cases, conservative care like Chiropractic and Physical Therapy can fix the problem, avoiding any surgical intervention.
  • However, if you notice signs of weakness or severe pain, and imaging confirms the injury is more extensive, it may need to be treated surgically.
  • Determine which specific rotator cuff muscle is injured.  Because there are four, you need your treatment protocol tailored to the specific rotator cuff that has been injured.
  • Ice during the first 72 hours of an injury can help to decrease swelling.  Heat after 72 hours can improve healing times.
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