Rotator Cuff Problems

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons whose main job is to allow movement and provide stability to the shoulder. The cuff lifts and rotates the humerus (bone of the upper arm). The tendons run under the acromion (part of the shoulder blade that sits next to your collar bone) where they are very vulnerable to wear and tear and damage.

Who can diagnose a rotator cuff injury?

Following assessment your physiotherapist can diagnose a rotator cuff tear. This can be confirmed with a scan but this is not always necessary.

What causes a rotator cuff injury?

The anatomy and location of the rotator cuff tendon means that it is very susceptible to injury and this can lead to a tear resulting in a painful, weak shoulder. A tear may result suddenly from a single traumatic event or might develop gradually. The latter is often referred to as a degenerative cuff tear.

These degenerative tears are normal and commonly start around middle age. The rotator cuff becomes weak and prone to rupture or tear. A fall or wrenching injury can then result in complete rupture of the tendons. This leads to pain and weakness of the shoulder. Occasionally a rotator cuff tear will require surgery but very often physiotherapy intervention alone will allow you to return to your chosen pre-injury activities.

What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff injury?

Symptoms of Rotator Cuff injury may include one or more of the following:
Difficulty lifting the arm due to pain and or weakness
Pain on the outside or front of the shoulder, possibly travelling down the arm.
Pain on specific movements, lifting arm above shoulder height for example
Pain is common at night

Physiotherapy treatment for a rotator cuff injury

At Cleethorpes Physio Clinic we have a lot of experience of Rotator cuff problems, be it degenerative tears or sporting injury. Each individual program requires a slightly different treatment approach in order to return you to full fitness in optimal time.

Physiotherapy treatment may include one or more of the following: