Rotator Cuff Tear

 

Shoulder Pain, Rotator Cuff Injury and Shoulder Injuries are Leading Among Sports Injuries

Rotator cuff tear and generally rotator cuff injuries are considered not only the most common shoulder injuries, but maybe the most common sports injuries as well, causing severe shoulder pain and dysfunction.

As it courses down, the rotator cuff tendon crosses the shoulder joint.   At the so-called "critical zone" the rotator cuff becomes compromised both in the hanging arm position and during each rotator cuff muscle contraction, causing cuff degeneration.  In addition, impaired movement coordination causes flawed execution of shoulder movements, contributing to rotator cuff injury.

 

Tennis Injury, Baseball or Basketball Injury, Weight lifting injury, Gymnastic or Dance Injury

Rotator cuff injury is frequently seen as a result of tennis- baseball-  or basketball injury.  However, it is frequently seen as weight lifting- gymnastic- or as dance injuries as well.  The weekend athlete and novice sports enthusiast also may suffer.

During shoulder raise, due to sudden acceleration, or deceleration of the arm, the rotator cuff may get caught and impinged in the narrow gap of the joint space, between two bones: the humeral tubercle and the acromial process.

With the arm hanging, the rotator cuff is stretched.  During shoulder elevation the cuff becomes redundant, developing a fold similar to an accordion or a curtain.  Normally, the fold is directed outward, away from the joint space.  If as a result of flawed movement coordination, the fold points inward, it gets impinged in the joint space and a "crease is being ironed" on the cuff, pointing inward.

Subsequently, the impingement becomes habitual occurring repetitively, leading to "perpetual friction" and wearing away the rotator cuff tendon, and eventually, resulting in rotator cuff tear.

 

Physical Therapy,  Shoulder Exercises

It is critical that the condition is diagnosed and treated as early as possible if surgery is to be avoided.  Physical therapy is beneficial and in most cases is the treatment of choice.  After injury, relative rest and anti-inflammatory medications are recommended, however appropriate, therapeutic shoulder exercises to avoid muscle contracture (limitation of range of shoulder motion) are the key to full functional recovery.  Each case may be different however, and an orthopedic examination and an accurate diagnosis is necessary for appropriate medical intervention. 

If you are suffering of a shoulder injury or pain do not hesitate to seek timely, professional help.  

Call New York Midtown Orthopedics for an appointment.

 

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