If so, a rotator cuff injury could be the issue.
Rotator cuff injuries are quite painful to work through and challenging to manage, however aren’t uncommon. Athletes or tradies are some of the most susceptible to developing this type of injury, due to the physical strain and repeated shoulder movements they are required to do.
Fortunately however, there are many effective treatment options. In this blog we’ll look at what a rotator cuff injury is, along with its symptoms and ways you can treat so you can become pain free again!
What is a Rotator Cuff and what does it do?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their associated tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. These muscles and tendons work together to provide strength and stability, enabling a wide range of shoulder and arm movements. The rotator cuff allows you to lift and rotate your arm, playing a crucial role in almost all shoulder movements.
What is a Rotator Cuff Injury?
A rotator cuff injury refers to any kind of damage, whether it be a tear or strain, that occurs to the rotator cuff muscles or tendons.
Common types of rotator cuff injuries include –
Rotator cuff tendinopathy – Degeneration of the tendon due to overuse.
Rotator cuff tear- A tear in one or more of the rotator cuff tendons, which can be partial or complete.
Rotator cuff strain – Overstretching or tearing of the muscle fibers or tendons.
These injuries typically result from shoulder instability or repeated strain on the shoulder muscles, often due to repetitive physical movements or existing genetic conditions.
Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Injury
Someone with an injured or torn rotator cuff may experience the symptoms below –
- Shoulder pain and/or upper back pain
- Loss of strength in the shoulder and/or arm
- Swelling in the shoulder
- Pain while lifting
- Shoulder joint stiffness
Who is Most Likely at Risk?
While anyone can develop a rotator cuff injury, certain groups are at higher risk. These include –
- Athletes – Athletes fall into the higher risk group. Sports that heavily engage the shoulder joint and muscles, like basketball, tennis, and volleyball, increase the risk of rotator cuff injuries due to repetitive overhead motions. A torn muscle or tendon can change into a serious rotator cuff issue that needs to be looked at.
- Trade Workers – Jobs that involve heavy lifting and repetitive shoulder movements, such as construction work. Engaging the rotator cuff muscle groups repeatedly, can lead to wear and tear on the rotator cuff over time and lead to rotator cuff pain.
- Individuals with Genetic Predispositions – Medical conditions affecting muscles and tendons, such as muscular disorders, metabolic disorders, age,and weight, can make someone more susceptible to rotator cuff injuries.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Injuries
Healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, diagnose rotator cuff injuries through a combination of medical history and physical examination initially, to assess the movement and pain levels in the shoulder and arm region. Further diagnosis can be done through imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI to assess the extent of the damage.
Those suffering from rotator cuff injuries should be aware that these are common conditions and there are plenty of options for treatment in order to provide pain relief and get them back to living a healthy lifestyle.
Treatment Options include –
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS
- Over-the-counter pain medication, like ibuprofen
- Heat/ice treatments
- Acupuncture
- Regular rest for the shoulder
- Physical therapy including exercises for shoulder mobility and strengthening
SURGICAL TREATMENT
Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases or when nonsurgical treatments fail. Surgical options may include repairing the torn tendon or muscle. Most surgeons recommend trialling a supervised Physiotherapy program for 3-6 months before considering surgery.
How Treatment at Sandgate Physical Health Clinic Can Help!
At Sandgate Physical Health Clinic, our team of experienced physiotherapists, remedial massage therapists and acupuncturists is dedicated to helping you recover from your rotator cuff injury. By addressing the root causes of your injury and providing comprehensive care, we aim to help you regain full function of your shoulder and return to your daily activities pain-free.
We offer personalised treatment plans that may include –
- Targeted Exercise Programs – Designed to strengthen the muscles and improve shoulder stability.
- Manual Therapy and Acupuncture – Techniques to reduce pain and improve shoulder mobility.
- Education and Advice – On proper shoulder mechanics and exercises to prevent future injuries.
- Rehabilitation Programs – Tailored to your specific condition, ensuring a safe and effective recovery.
If you suspect a rotator cuff injury or are experiencing shoulder pain, don’t hesitate to contact us today on 07 3869 1099. Our dedicated team is here to support you on your path to recovery.