Rotator Cuff Injury Prevention and Treatment

Is shoulder pain limiting your normal daily activities? This ailment is a common patient complaint and a rotator cuff tear is often the culprit. A torn rotator cuff will weaken your shoulder making even the simplest daily tasks, like brushing your teeth and getting dressed, difficult and painful.

Age is not your friend when it comes to the rotator cuff muscles, as the most frequent injuries are caused by natural wear over time. While you can’t always prevent injury, strengthening your shoulder muscles and minimizing overuse will help you to avoid a chronic rotator cuff condition. However, swimmers, throwers, and other overhead athletes are also at risk for injury due to repetitive motion and overuse, so its important to train with proper body mechanics. For shoulder pain that slowly develops and increases, you may try at-home treatments, but tears can grow and worsen if not treated correctly. If your pain starts interfering with your normal routine, you may want to see a physical therapist or shoulder specialist to learn your other options.

Treatment Options

• The goal for any treatment is to reduce pain and restore mobility. Here are some ideas to help you feel better:
• Rest and avoid painful activities.
• Ice the shoulder alternating 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off. Do this 3-4 times per day for 2-3 days.
• Physical Therapy will help increase strength and mobility.

Treatment works best when catered to an individual’s needs so please see a specialist if your pain continues and/or increases.