Rotator cuff injury

Rotator Cuff Injury

The shoulder joint is a relatively unstable joint that is moved and controlled by a small group of four muscles, known as the rotator cuff.  These muscles (the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis and teres minor) help move, control and stabilise the shoulder.

A rotator cuff injury can include any type of irritation or overuse to these muscles or their tendons, and is one of the most common shoulder injuries we see.  Injuries involving the rotator cuff include impingement, tendinopathy, strains and tears, all of which can be acute or chronic in nature.  Activities that cause rotator cuff injury include lifting, falling, overhead activities, repetitive activities, poor posture and degenerative changes to name but a few.

If you are experiencing pain in your shoulder a thorough assessment of the shoulder and surrounding structures is important to accurately diagnosis a rotator cuff injury.   Depending on the diagnosis, sports physiotherapy treatment may include joint mobilization, soft tissue release, dry needling, postural education and shock wave therapy.  A graduated sports physiotherapy rehabilitation program will improve your strength and movement enabling your shoulder joint to return to its full strength and flexibility. Click here for a demo on some great exercises to help with your Rotator cuff injury. Please always remember that for best results supervision and specialist instruction is recommended.

 

If you think you may have a rotator cuff injury and would like more information or an appointment please call us at Better Health on 02 9518 0722.