Rotator cuff injury: what does that mean?
Often in clinic I have patients talking about rotator cuff pain, however I seem to get a mixed response when I ask patients about their understanding around what it is and how it operates. In this blog I will aim to offer a little more information on the rotator cuff and some possible causes for pain.
What is the rotator cuff?
The Rotator Cuff is a common name for a group of 4 muscles and their tendons, which provide strength and stability during movement of the shoulder complex. They are also referred to as the SITS muscle, with reference to the first letter of their names:
Supraspinatus
Infraspinatus,
Teres minor
Subscapularis,
Rotator cuff injuries
In younger people, most injuries occur because of trauma, for example a sporting injury. Other injuries arise from overuse due to repetitive activities. The risk of rotator cuff injury can increase with age this is mainly due to the fact muscles in this area are susceptible to degeneration. Types of rotator cuff injury include:
· Rotator Cuff Tears (tearing of the muscles or tendons)
· Rotator Cuff Tendinitis (acute inflammation of the rotator cuff soft tissues
· Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy (chronic irritation or degeneration of the rotator cuff soft tissue)
· Impingement syndrome (biomechanical dysfunction of the shoulder complex with causes abnormal wear and tear on the rotator cuff soft tissue).
Common signs of rotator cuff injuries
· Painful range of motion
· Painful arching of the arm (degrees vary - generally above shoulder height)
· Painful external rotation / internal rotation
· Muscle weakness in the shoulder joint
· Functional impairments (difficulty lifting, pushing, overhead movements and movements with hand behind the back)
If you are currently suffering from any of the symptoms mention in this blog or simply would like to come in for some advice or an assessment, then then give us a call on 01202 604707 or email admin@wimbornewellnesscentre.co.uk.