Rotator Cuff Strain

A rotator cuff injury is one that is commonly seen in our chiropractic office. The most common type of rotator cuff injury is a strain: a type of a tendinitis, which is an inflammation of the normally smooth lining of the tendons.

The rotator cuff consists of tendons and four muscles known as SITS muscles (Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres minor, Subscapularis), which originate at the shoulder blade and wrap around the head of the shoulder. When one or more of the muscles is overused, the tendons can become inflamed and it may be painful to raise or lower your arm and the range of motion may be restricted.

Causes of Rotator Cuff Strain - Examples:

• The shoulder muscles being used, but not moved, such as in working on a computer or at a desk

• Repetitive overhead arm movements due to work, such as factory, painting or carpentry work

• Sports, particularly sports which require repeated over-the-head arm movements, such as tennis, baseball and swimming

• Sleeping habits, such as sleeping on the same arm every night

• Over many years poor posture can cause rotator cuff strain

Treatments for Rotator Cuff Strain

Treatments vary from person to person, and results can be seen within a few weeks to a few months. Here are a few common recommendations:

• Avoiding the cause of the strain until healed

• Ice packs

• Anti-inflammatory medication

• Cold LASER Therapy to help speed healing and/or Therapeutic Ultrasound

• Massage therapy can help regain some aspects of motion by softening the tissues

• Chiropractic adjustments to help ensure the shoulder blade and spine are in proper alignment, retraining the tissues back into place

• Physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons

• At home stretches and exercises

If you’re having shoulder pain, please contact our office. We offer many therapies for the treatment of rotator cuff strains and we’d be pleased to create a rehabilitative program custom for you. 519-258-8544