Rotator Cuff Tears
The rotator cuff is a tendinous cuff formed by four muscles that originate at the shoulder blade and attach to the ball of the shoulder joint. The function of the rotator cuff is to extend and rotate the shoulder joint. Rotator cuff tears occur by prolonged wear and tear which weakens the tendon. Rotator cuff tears occur more commonly in activities that involve overhead motion such as, pitching, volleyball, tennis and swimming. Symptoms characteristic of a rotator cuff tear include aching pain that radiates down the outside of the shoulder worsened with overhead activities. Constant pain at night is usually indicative of a rotator cuff tear. The diagnosis of a Rotator cuff tear can be made with physical examination by a physician and usually confirmed with an MRI.
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you sustained a Rotator Cuff Tear
- Acute treatment starts with reduction of inflammation - RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).
- Immobilization of the shoulder take place in an Arm Sling and/or Shoulder Immobilizer