Rotator Cuff Injuries

What is the Rotator Cuff

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, which holds the arm in the socket of the shoulder. A rotator cuff injury can cause a dull ache in the shoulder or sharp pain depending on the severity of the injury. It often worsens when you try to sleep on the involved side.

What causes Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries occur most often when we repeatedly perform overhead motions, such as with jobs or sports. Examples include painters, carpenters, and people who play baseball or tennis. The risk of injury increases with age and we can have tears associated with degenerative changes in the should that wear down the tendon over time.

Many people recover from rotator cuff disease with physical therapy exercises and therapies that decrease inflammation and improve flexibility and strength of the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint.

Sometimes, rotator cuff tears may occur as a result of a single injury, such as a fall on the shoulder or a jerking motion that places a great amount of stress on the muscle. In those circumstances, medical care should be provided as soon as possible. Extensive rotator cuff tears may require surgical repair. Dr. Gibson will do a thorough assessment to determine the best course of treatment with a rotator cuff injury.

The sooner you seek treatment for a rotator cuff injury, the quicker you will have relief and the faster the muscles and tendons will heal.

Dr. Gibson at RTP Chiropractic in Morrisville NC is highly trained and skilled to diagnosis the underlying cause of your condition. He will develop treatment recommendations as well as home instructions to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. If you have any questions about the treatment options for these types of conditions, don’t hesitate to call the office at anytime.