Rotator cuff injuries are prevalent among both athletes and non-athletic individuals. When one or more tendons in the rotator cuff are damaged, it can lead to stiffness, soreness, and reduced mobility in the shoulder. While a rotator cuff injury itself doesn’t cause immediate pain, acute injuries can result in discomfort.

These injuries typically manifest in two forms:

1. Full Tear: This occurs when the tendon is entirely detached from the bone.
2. Partial Tear: In this case, the tendon is damaged but not completely severed.

At Dr. Ram Sihag physiotherapy Clinic in Hanumangarh, we often address rotator cuff injuries without resorting to surgery. Through activity modification and physiotherapy, our expert team assists patients in resuming their daily tasks and promotes a more active, healthier lifestyle. Our personalized conditioning programs aid in returning to sports and leisure activities.

Symptoms:

Common indicators of a rotator cuff injury include:

• Avoidance of specific activities due to pain.
• Difficulty reaching the full range of motion in the shoulder.
• Discomfort when sleeping on the affected shoulder.
• Pain or tenderness during stretching.
• Persistent shoulder pain, especially at night.
• Pain experienced while reaching behind the back.

Causes:

Several factors can lead to rotator cuff injuries, such as:

• Falling: Using your arm to break a fall or falling directly on your arm can result in bruising or tearing of a rotator cuff tendon or muscle.
• Lifting or Pulling: Lifting objects that are too heavy or doing so improperly, especially overhead, can strain or tear tendons or muscles.
• Repetitive Stress: Engaging in repetitive overhead movements of the arms can stress rotator cuff muscles and tendons, causing inflammation and eventual tearing.
• Bone Spurs: An overgrowth of bone on a part of the shoulder blade that protrudes over the rotator cuff can irritate and damage the tendon.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your risk of experiencing a rotator cuff injury:

1. Age: The risk of a rotator cuff injury rises as you grow older, with tears being most common in individuals over 40.
2. Certain Sports: Athletes engaging in repetitive arm motions, like baseball pitchers, archers, and tennis players, are at a higher risk of rotator cuff injuries due to the repetitive strain.
3. Construction Jobs: Occupations such as carpentry or house painting, which involve repetitive overhead arm motions, can lead to rotator cuff damage over time.

Complications

While shoulder rest is vital for recovery, excessive immobilization can lead to thickening and tightness of the connective tissue around the joint, resulting in a condition known as frozen shoulder.

Prevention

If you are at risk of rotator cuff injuries or have experienced one in the past, incorporating daily shoulder stretches and exercises can prevent future injuries. Balancing the strengthening of front muscles with those at the back of the shoulder and around the shoulder blade is crucial. A tailored exercise routine can be planned with the guidance of your doctor or a physical therapist.

Physiotherapy:

The rotator cuff consists of four muscles:

1. Supraspinatus
2. Infraspinatus
3. Subscapularis
4. Teres Minor

These muscles stabilize the shoulder joint and support various shoulder movements.

The type and extent of the injury determine the need for surgical intervention. In many cases, especially partial tears that don’t involve all muscles, physiotherapy plays a significant role. At Delhi Physio Care, our team of qualified therapists conducts a comprehensive assessment, considering injury history, pain areas, and restricted movements. The evaluation includes:

• Tenderness around the shoulder joint
• Presence of referred pain in the arm or neck
• Restricted shoulder movements (usually active range)
• Night pain evaluation, addressing proper arm positioning during sleep
• Assessing joint and arm weakness
• Examining for any swelling or redness

Prompt treatment is crucial, as untreated injuries can worsen and lead to complications like frozen shoulder. Physiotherapists focus on pain reduction, joint movement, and strength restoration using techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue stretches, and strengthening exercises. Modalities like ultrasound, TENS, EMS, laser therapy, and hot/cold packs may also be employed to alleviate pain.

Patience is key during the recovery phase, which typically spans 3-8 weeks. Rotator cuff injuries involve soft tissues and tendons, necessitating time for proper healing. Following the therapist’s instructions and diligently adhering to the home exercise program is essential. Avoid painful movements, and be mindful of your body’s signals. Your therapist will guide you on the treatment expectations and recovery timeline.

If you’re searching for Rotator Cuff Injury treatment in Hanumangarh, trust us for personalized care and effective rehabilitation. Regain confidence in your movements and resume your normal activities swiftly with our specialized Rotator Cuff Injury treatments. Visit Dr. Ram Sihag physiotherapy Clinic today for expert Rotator Cuff Injury care tailored to your needs.