Rotator cuff injuries – how we can help!
You may not realise just how much you rely on your shoulders in your day-to-day activities – until you suffer an injury! There are numerous ways to injure your shoulder but one of the most common involves the rotator cuff!
What is a rotator cuff?
The term rotator cuff refers to a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff helps to keep the shoulder stable and working at optimal capacity.
The shoulders are among the most flexible joints in the body, but unfortunately this also makes them susceptible to injury. An injury could have a sudden onset, or it can happen over time, due to wear and tear.
Types of rotator cuff injuries
There are many ways to injure this area depending on which tissues and structures are involved. Here are 4 of the most common: –
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Inflammation.
Inflammation can occur in response to an injury or overuse. If the tissues become inflamed, the swelling produced can reduce movements and increase pain in the area.
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Sprain/strain.
The muscles and tendons in the area can become overstretched or strained with certain repetitive movements or activities. The muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff become loosened to a point where they cannot function properly leaving you open to other shoulder injuries.
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Wear & Tear.
This type of injury develops over time. As we age our joints lose some mobility and flexibility. The tissues that support the shoulder become stiff and less elastic. Repetitive movements increase the chance of wear and tear on the shoulder joint and the rotator cuff.
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Rotator cuff tear.
This refers to a partial or complete tear of one or more of the muscles and tendons that make up the rotator cuff. A partial tear refers to a muscle or tendon that may have overstretched and become frayed or damaged. A complete tear refers to when the tendon completely separates from the bone.
Symptoms
The main symptom of this type of injury is pain at the top and side of the shoulder. The pain can be a dull ache, or it can feel severe and sudden.
The shoulder pain associated with this type of injury often gets worse if you are performing an activity where your arms are raised above your head.
Other symptoms include: –
- Weakness when the arm is lifted or moved above the head.
- Restricted range of movement.
- Disturbed sleep, especially if you lie on the injured side.
- A clicking or grating sound when you move the shoulder.
How can your Chiropractor help?
The aim of Chiropractic treatment is to make sure your body is in a position to start healing, by properly aligning the bones, muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff and shoulder.
Chiropractors work to resolve the symptoms as swiftly and safely as possible so you can resume your normal activities.
Your Chiropractor will collaborate with you to help restore flexibility and range of motion. This may include stretches, exercises, and mobilisation techniques.
Your Chiropractor will look at each injury individually and design a care plan customized to meet the needs of each individual.
If you would like some further information or to speak to a member of our team please call us on: Hitchin 01462 420077 or Luton 01582 579687, alternatively e-mail us at: hitchin@healesclinics.com or luton@healesclinics.com