ROTATOR CUFF REHABILITATION
What Is The Rotator Cuff?
The tendons and muscles of the shoulder form a sleeve-like structure which surrounds the shoulder joint. The sleeve, or “cuff” is formed by four muscles: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis. These four muscles share a common tendon, and the muscles and their tendon act to stabilize and reinforce the humeral head --, the top of the long bone of the upper arm.
The four muscles of the rotator cuff originate from the wing bone, or scapula, and form a tendon unit, which inserts on the greater tuberosity(a depression) of the humerus. The rotator cuff helps to slow down your arm in many sports, and maintains the position of the humeral head in the shoulder joint during overhead activities.
How Do Rotator Cuff Disorders Happen?
Most rotator cuff injuries occur as a result of repetitive overhead movements that cause wear and tear of the tendon. Activities and sports such as softball, racquet sports, and swimming create stress and traumatize the rotator cuff tendon. Most injuries result from overuse of the body, coupled with improper strength training.
What are the Symptoms of a Rotator Cuff Tear?
The most common symptom of a rotator cuff tear is pain in the front of the shoulder that radiates down the side of the arm. Initially, the pain is mild and is present with overhead activities such as reaching and lifting. Over time the pain becomes more noticeable, whether at rest or with little activity. Simple movements such as combing your hair and reaching behind your back, produce pain.
