Shoulder – Rotator Cuff Muscles, Tears and Treatment

Rotator cuff is the name for the group of muscles and their tendons that hold the shoulder joint in place. The rotator cuff muscles include: Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres Minor and Subscapularis. These muscles form a ‘cuff' around the shoulder joint holding it in place during all arm movements. Some degree of Rotator Cuff injury occurs in most people at some point in their lives. It can be the result of a fall, pulling or pushing an object, or from repetitive use such as painting, swimming or long stretches in the garden – especially overhead work. Over the years, repetitive shoulder actions fray the Rotator Cuff structures. Sudden loading of the tendons in people unprepared for the movement can result in either a minor or major tear. Physiotherapists treat Rotator Cuff injuries when surgery is not required, and can provide rehab after shoulder surgery. Obviously, your level of physical conditioning and strength will have a big effect on your likelihood of suffering a Rotator Cuff injury.

For more information about the Rotator Cuff and other fascinating structures in the human body, please visit GordonPhysio.