
What Is It?
The rotator cuff is a group of four small muscles encircling the shoulder joint. These muscles have tendons that connect to the humerus, near the joint, functioning like a cuff that offers both support and control to the shoulder. Crucially, they are responsible for the shoulder’s rotational movements.
Rotator cuff tears, frequently seen in racket and throwing sports, rank among the primary reasons for shoulder pain. Such tears can manifest in any of these four muscles, often at their most vulnerable spot: the intersection of the muscle and tendinous tissue. The likelihood of encountering rotator cuff tears escalates with age due to degenerative changes in the tissues.
What are the symptoms?
Interestingly, many with rotator cuff tears remain asymptomatic, oblivious to their condition. Conversely, some might suffer intense pain and find shoulder movement, especially overhead actions, challenging. Typical symptoms include restricted motion range, weakness in the arm, pain radiating down the arm, and nocturnal pain potentially disrupting sleep.
Notably, tear size doesn’t necessarily correlate with the degree of pain or dysfunction. Minor tears might induce significant issues, while sizable ones might remain undetected.
What are the causes?
Rotator cuff tears commonly stem from actions that induce rapid twisting or excessive stretching of the shoulder, with falls on an outstretched hand being a prevalent injury mechanism. Tears can be either acute, evolving over time, or tied to degenerative shifts where diminished strength and flexibility make tendons more injury-prone due to everyday tasks.
Overuse, carrying or lifting hefty items, and repeated overhead motions are other potential culprits. Suboptimal biomechanics might weaken shoulder tendons, depriving the rotator cuff of adequate blood supply over extended durations. Consequently, the tendon becomes more injury-prone, significantly influencing tear development and recovery outcomes.
How can physiotherapy help?
Physiotherapy aims to mitigate pain, enhance motion range and strength, and boost shoulder functionality. Physiotherapists partner with patients, setting goals and devising a tailored rehab program, hands-on therapy, and educating them on maximizing recovery benefits.
Although major tears frequently necessitate surgical correction, studies increasingly suggest that even with extensive tears, a thorough rehab plan supervised by a physiotherapist can yield outcomes akin to surgical interventions. Hence, many patients are advised to initially pursue a conservative treatment route spearheaded by a physiotherapist. Recovery and treatment durations differ based on various factors, such as injury severity, the decision to undergo surgery, and pre-injury functionality.
Note: The information herein is not a medical advice substitute. Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.