Rotator cuff injuries can be caused by a sudden traumatic incident, or develop over time. Symptoms can include pain, weakness and a sense of instability or apprehension, around your shoulder.
The Rotator Cuff
Pain can present around the shoulder, upper arm, and shoulder blade.
The shoulder joint is a very flexible ball and socket joint, formed by three bones: the shoulder blade or scapula, the upper arm or humerus, and the collar bone or clavicle. The four rotator cuff muscles are a key part of what gives your shoulder its stability.
Damage to any one of these muscles therefore impacts on the function of your joint.
The majority of the time, rotator cuff injuries do not require surgery, and will respond very well to the right, conservative management. In fact, many people who have a tear are not even aware of it. Regardless of your activity, try to avoid rounding your shoulder blades.
Tip to preventing shoulder pain:
Endeavour to keep your shoulder blades back and your neck long, whatever your activity. This puts the muscles in your rotator cuff, as well as the other muscles supporting your shoulder, in a more optimal position.
It is vital that you look at the activities that provoked your pain in the first place.
- Monitor your posture
- Review your technique
- Take breaks if required to prevent irritating your symptoms further.
A guided, progressive strengthening program is important as we must be careful not to irritate your symptoms while we are building up strength. Strengthening exercises should focus on your postural muscles, as well as your rotator cuff. This will correct any poor muscular control that may have contributed to the cause of your injury.
If you are struggling with shoulder pain and want to be guided through a management program. just reach out and we can help get you back on track.
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