Rotator Cuff Injuries Condition

What is Rotator Cuff Injuries?

Rotator cuff injuries can take several forms, with effects that range from mild aches to more serious pain, weakness, and loss of mobility. They are most commonly seen in athletes who perform repetitive arm motions, construction workers and contractors, and people who engage in heavy lifting on a regular basis. Patients who forgo treatment for their shoulder condition can experience progressive weakness, increase discomfort, and even permanent loss of mobility.

The rotator cuff is made up of four muscles and tendons around the shoulder joint. When healthy, this group of muscles and tendons helps the shoulder move while providing stability and protection. Unfortunately, injuries to this area are more common than many people realize and can come in three main injury types: tendinitis, bursitis, and strains.

What Causes this Condition?

There are a number of ways that these injuries can occur. Depending on the type of injury, the causes can include:

• Tendinitis: This injury occurs as a result of repeated overuse of the muscles and tendons that make up the rotator cuff. Athletes commonly experience this injury, as they repeatedly use their shoulder muscles to throw or hit balls in various sports activities. That overuse causes inflammation.
• Bursitis: The second type of injury occurs when the bursa – the fluid sacs positioned between the tendons and bone – become inflamed.
• Strains: These injuries in many ways, including falls, accidents, sudden impact, or overuse.

Many of the most severe rotator cuff issues are the result of unique events like accidents, lifting a heavy object, or simply twisting the shoulder into an unnatural position. Others are degenerative in nature and occur over a period of years or as a result of the aging process.

What Are the Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries?

Like other shoulder conditions, any injury to the rotator cuff will present a variety of symptoms. Those signs and symptoms may include:

• Limited range of motion in the affected shoulder
• A need to avoid certain movements due to pain
• Lack of flexibility in the shoulder
• Weakness in the shoulder, or even the arm
• An inability to raise your arm overhead without experiencing pain
• Shoulder pain that may make it difficult to sleep

Since severe rotator cuff issues can have a long-term or even permanent impact on your shoulder health, it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect that you have this type of injury.

How We Can Help

Most shoulder injuries of this kind can be treated with gentle, safe osteopathic care. While rest is an important part of any recovery effort, immobility alone can present its own unique risks. Osteopathic treatments that include manual manipulation, appropriate stretching exercises, and lifestyle recommendations can play an important role in your healing process.