Rotator cuff injuries (shoulder)

Author: Angela Tam (senior physio)

What is the rotator cuff? 

The rotator cuff is comprised of a group of 4 muscles and their tendons which wrap around the shoulder. These muscles originate from the shoulder blade and end at the arm. Together they help to stabilise the shoulder joint.  

What happens when I have a rotator cuff injury?  

The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body.  Because of the large range of motion, injuries are common at any age. In younger people, they can arise from repetitive use in sport, or from accidents or trauma. In older clients, age-related changes in the joint can precipitate rotator cuff tears and impingement. No matter your age, when rotator cuff muscles are not working optimally, pain can be felt in the shoulder or down the arm, from loading (impingement) of the other structures in the shoulder. 

How can physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapists are well trained to assess and manage rotator cuff injuries. A thorough assessment will identify movement and strength deficits and shoulder biomechanical issues that need to be addressed. A physiotherapist can then work with you to develop a program for improving pain free shoulder range of motion and get you back to work and sport. 

Management of rotator cuff injury

Depending on your stage of injury, treatment can include:

Manual therapy

Massage and mobilisations of the shoulder can help with pain and enable you to move better. 

Progressive Exercise Program

Exercises as supervised by a physiotherapist are focused on improving muscular supports for shoulder movements. When the shoulder muscles are strong, they are better able to control movements and that will help take the pressure off the pain-provoking passive structures. Physiotherapy assessment will also help identify any biomechanical factors that need to be addressed for optimal movement. 

Sports/Occupation specific rehabilitation

Shoulder pain may be preventing you from fully participating in your sport or work. If this is the case, your physio will work with you on sport or occupation specific exercises, which aim to gradually build you back up to the position and force required for your activities. 

Long term management

Once your pain is well managed, your physiotherapist will provide you with education and exercises to help manage your rotator cuff injury long term. You should know how to avoid pain and what to do during a flareup. Our goal is for you to feel confident using your shoulder again, and to be able to return to doing the things you love.