The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles that support your shoulder, and help keep the arm in the socket while you move. These muscles start on the shoulder blade and wrap around to the front and side of your shoulder like a hand, keeping it nice and stable. Whenever you are reaching or moving your arm overhead, the rotator cuff muscles are working hard to lift the arm and keep the shoulder in place. They also help to rotate the arm, hence the name. 

Why does it get injured?

The rotator cuff can be injured from a fall, a sporting injury, or from repetitive tasks. These muscles and tendons live in a tight space, have a big job to do, and can bump and rub causing them to get injured. Aging plays an important role in tendons because as we age, tendons gradually get weaker and this, plus years of use can start to cause problems. This can lead to inflammation or tearing.

Any good news?

The good news is that just like anything in the body, if you keep your shoulder strong, the likelihood of injuring your rotator cuff is much less. Regular strengthening exercises can prevent your tendons and muscles from getting weaker, and the right stretches can make sure there isn’t any unnecessary rubbing in your shoulder. 

And the best news? 

This is what we do! Rotator cuff injuries are one of the most common injuries we see in clinic and Physiotherapists are experts at fixing your shoulder pain and helping you stay strong and active. 

Is your rotator cuff causing you pain? Think LOCAL

DP