Rotator Cuff Tears 2018-01-22T14:51:59+00:00

Project Description

Rotator Cuff Tears
Rotator Cuff Tears
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Rotator Cuff Tears

What are Rotator Cuff Tears?

A Rotator Cuff Tear occurs when the muscles or tendons that make up your rotator cuff become completely or partially torn. It may be a result of a trauma, such as a fall, or due to tiny tears to the tendon through use and wear over time. The rotator cuff is made up of a group of four muscles and their tendons. It plays a crucial role in keeping your shoulder joint stable. The tendons wrap around the shoulder, forming a cuff around the ball of the humerus.

What causes it?

Rotator cuff injuries may occur due to one or more of the following:

  • Wear with age. Over the age of 40 you are at an increased risk of rotator cuff injuries because your tendons start to wear down with age and can become more prone to injury. Calcium deposits can rub against the tendons, causing further inflammation known as calcific tendonitis.
  • Repetitive overhead motions with your arms. You are more likely to have a rotator cuff injury if you do certain sports, activities or occupations. Examples include swimming, weight lifting or playing racquet sports, or occupations such as painting, decorating or window cleaning.
  • Lifting or pulling an object that is too heavy for you or lifting it in the wrong way can cause you to strain or tear a rotator cuff tendon or muscle.
  • Landing on an outstretched hand to break a fall can tear or strain a rotator cuff muscle or tendon. Rotator cuff injuries often occur if you dislocate your shoulder.
  • Musculoskeletal disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can cause the rotator cuff muscles to become weaker.

How can we help?

The physiotherapists at Davenport House Clinic can assess the movement patterns of your shoulder and can measure weakness or tightness in certain muscle groups. Your physiotherapist will discuss with you which treatment technique he or she will use for your individual circumstances and may give you some exercises to do at home.