About the condition

What is a rotator cuff tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles which join together as tendons to cover the humeral head (top of the upper arm bone). The rotator cuff forms an attachment between the humerus and the shoulder blade, and is responsible for lifting and rotating arm movements, as well as centralising the humeral head in the socket joint. A lubricating sac called thebursafacilitates free and smooth movement of the tendons – damage to the rotator cuff can also cause inflammation of the bursa.

When one or more of the rotator cuff tendons are torn, the humerus is no longer properly or fully attached to the tendons. There are three types of rotator cuff tears:

Partial tear– also referred to as an incomplete tear, where the tendon is damaged but the attachment is not completely severed.
Full-thickness tear– also referred to as a complete tear, where the tear is the full thickness of the tendon often forming a hole within the tendon.
Complete Rupture– where the tendon is no longer attached.

Causes

What are the causes?

The exact cause and severity of a rotator cuff tear can vary, however there are usually two main contributing factors. These include:

Those over 40 years of age, athletes/sports people/younger individuals engaging in risk-taking behaviours are at a higher risk of injuring the rotator cuff.

Shoulder injuries (acute)– trauma or force to the shoulder can tear the tendonse.g.falls,car accidents, shoulderfractures/dislocations,high-contact sports, etc.
e.g.falls,car accidents, shoulderfractures/dislocations,high-contact sports, etc.
e.g. repetitive/strenuous movement, reduced blood supply to tendon, development of bone spurs on humerus, etc.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms?

Pain in the shoulder – dull ache which worsens with movement
Stiffness/inability to move the arm or shoulder
‘Cracking’ sensation when moving the arm
Tenderness in the upper arm and shoulder
Reduced range of movement Difficulty reaching up over the head or behind the back (lifting/rotating movements)
Difficulty reaching up over the head or behind the back (lifting/rotating movements)
Reduced strength/muscle weakness
Slipping out of joint
Swelling and bruising
Sleeping interrupted by pain

Treatment

Treatment for Rotator Cuff Tears

If you suspect you have a rotator cuff tear, it is important to see a medical professional. You will likely be referred for imaging to determine the type and severity of the condition.

Physical therapy is highly beneficial in reducing associated symptoms. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a unique treatment plan to aid in your recovery through:

If the pain and reduced movement is severe, driving and strenuous activity should be avoided. Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to use neck support or a suitable pillow.

Stretching, strengthening and/or conditioning exercises
Restoring range of movement
Postural improvement
Soft tissue mobilisations (massage)
Shockwave Therapy
Dry needling
Taping
A unique home exercise program
Graded Exposure to load program

Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment in Sinnamon Park

What is a rotator cuff tear?

What are the causes?

What are the symptoms?

Treatment for Rotator Cuff Tears

Treating Rotator Cuff Tear in Sinnamon Park

Get it assessed properly