Rotator Cuff Tear

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that are responsible for keeping the shoulder joint stable. Unfortunately, injuries to the rotator cuff are very common and usually occur from injury or repetitive overuse. A tear occurs when the muscles or tendons are damaged. Rotator cuff tears are categorized either as full thickness, or partial thickness tears. A full thickness tear has extended from the top to the bottom of the muscle or tendon, and a partial thickness tear only affects a portion of this area. People with chronic rotator cuff injuries often have a history of tendon irritation that causes shoulder pain with movement. This condition is known as shoulder impingement syndrome.

What are the symptoms?

• Pain over the top of the shoulder or down the arm.
• Shoulder weakness.
• Loss of shoulder motion.
• The injured arm often feels heavy.
• Difficulty reaching up to a shelf, or behind their back.

How can a Physical Therapist help?

• Flexibility exercises and stretches to improve muscle health.
• Strengthening exercises to increase support and functional use of your arm.
• Posture education
• Instruction on symptom management with the use of cold/heat therapy.

Note: If you have a rotator cuff surgery, your Orthopedic Surgeon will provide you with a specific treatment protocol for us to follow.