Rotator Cuff Injury
A rotator cuff injury involves damage to the group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff is crucial for shoulder movement and strength, and injuries can result from acute trauma, repetitive overhead activities, or degeneration over time.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Pain typically felt in the shoulder and may radiate down the arm. Pain often worsens with overhead activities.
- Difficulty lifting the arm, especially when reaching overhead or behind the back.
- Stiffness or decreased ability to move the shoulder fully.
- A popping or clicking sound when moving the shoulder.
- Night pain or discomfort that disrupts sleep, particularly when lying on the affected side.
Physiotherapy Managements:
- Manual Therapy : Techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue massage, and stretching to improve shoulder mobility and reduce tension.
- Pain Management : Use of modalities like ice, heat, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Kinesiology tape : To help reduce stress placed on the shoulder or to help facilitate movement
- Exercise Therapy:
- Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and mobility exercises to restore movement without exacerbating pain.
- Strengthening Exercises: Gradual introduction of exercises targeting the rotator cuff muscles and surrounding shoulder muscles, often starting with isometric exercises and progressing to more dynamic movements.
- Stabilization Exercises: Focusing on the muscles that support shoulder stability, including the scapular stabilizers.
- Education : Teaching patients about the condition, activity modification, and the importance of rehabilitation.
- Posture and Body Mechanics Training :Educating on proper posture and lifting techniques to prevent further injury and promote optimal shoulder function.
- Progressive Loading : Gradual reintroduction to normal activities and sports, ensuring the shoulder can handle increased loads without pain.
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