The rotator cuff is a crucial component of the shoulder joint, playing a significant role in mobility and stability. Unfortunately, rotator cuff injuries are common and can be painful, limiting your daily activities. Let’s explore the anatomy of the rotator cuff, common injuries, and how physical therapy can help you recover and regain function.
What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. These muscles and tendons provide stability and enable a wide range of shoulder movements, such as lifting and rotating your arm. However, you don’t have to be a baseball pitcher to injure your rotator cuff. Rotator cuff injuries can happen from overuse, certain physical occupations, or even car accidents.
Tendinitis in the Rotator Cuff
This common condition involves inflammation of the tendons due to overuse or repetitive motions, causing pain and limited mobility. It’s incredibly common to experience tendinitis in the rotator cuff, and it is often treated with physical therapy.
Strains and Tears of the Rotator Cuff
Excessive force or trauma can lead to strains or tears in the rotator cuff muscles or tendons – resulting in pain, weakness, and decreased range of motion. Sometimes the pain can become so intense that it prevents you from being able to lift your arm in certain positions.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapists use techniques such as manual therapy, ice, and electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation in the injured area. In addition to pain relief, targeted exercises help strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles – promoting stability and preventing future injuries. Your physical therapy will also use gradual stretching and mobility exercises to improve the shoulder’s flexibility and range of motion. This allows for more natural, pain-free movement.
Don’t let a rotator cuff injury hold you back – contact Activity First Physical Therapy today!