Your shoulder joint is made of a ball and socket joint controlled by a small group of four muscles that compose the rotator cuff. Rotator cuff syndrome is a very common shoulder condition. OPTIMAL Pain & Regenerative Medicine®, serving the Dallas, Fort Worth and Arlington, Texas area, shares information on the rotator cuff and the common injuries it can sustain.
What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. This group of muscles and tendons are responsible for providing strength and stability to the shoulder. Above the rotator cuff is a sac of tissue known as the bursa. The bursa covers and protects the rotator cuff as it comes into contact with the bones of the shoulder.
Why are Rotator Cuff Injuries so Common?
Rotator cuff injuries are a common injury. The rotator cuff can be injured by degeneration associated with aging, or by inflammation associated with tendonitis, bursitis or arthritis. The rotator cuff frequently experiences injury caused by trauma such as overuse, falling or a blunt force.
Rotator cuff syndrome can range from an acute injury such as a sprain to a chronic injury such as shoulder osteoarthritis. Other common rotator cuff injuries include rotator cuff impingement, rotator cuff tendonitis, shoulder bursitis and rotator cuff tears. Certain factors contribute to an increased risk of rotator cuff syndrome such as age, genetics, overuse in sports and repetitive work movements.
What are the Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Injuries?
Rotator cuff injuries can be painful and limit range of motion. The most common symptom of rotator cuff syndrome is shoulder pain. The pain is often gradual but can occur suddenly from trauma such as a sports injury or automobile accident. Rotator cuff injuries can also cause weakness, restricted motion, feeling of instability and a catching or locking sensation.
Rotator cuff injuries are diagnosed by a combination of patient history and physical examinations, X-rays and MRIs. Treatment for rotator cuff syndrome depends on the severity of the injury and the underlying condition of the patient. Mild injuries may be treated with rest and ice. More severe injuries may need physical therapy, injections or surgery.
Contact OPTIMAL Pain & Regenerative Medicine® in the Dallas, Fort Worth and Arlington, Texas area to discuss rotator cuff syndrome and rotator cuff injuries more in-depth with one of our physicians.