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Most often, shoulder problems involving the rotator cuff develop gradually from aging, continued overuse, repetitive activity, or a combination of these things.
Most often, shoulder problems involving the rotator cuff develop gradually from aging, continued overuse, repetitive activity, or a combination of these things.
What is a Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that connect the main muscles of your shoulder to your upper arm. Lying on top is the bursa. Activities that require repeated overhead arm movements can result in painful inflammation of the bursa (bursitis) and/or the tendon (tendinitis).
How is a Rotator Cuff Damaged?
Repetitive Activities
Rotator cuff damage in the form of tears generally occurs when the tendons become weak as a result of slow, progressive damage over time. Examples of repetitive motion that causes gradual damage would be lifting or painting.
In older, less active adults, even simple movements such as lifting a suitcase can cause a tear. But it takes tremendous force to tear a healthy rotator cuff tendon. This has been known to happen during an accident or a severe fall.
Overuse
Normal motions made frequently over a long period can injure rotator cuff tissues. Overuse may occur with or be closely related to repetitive activities.
How is a Rotator Cuff Tear Diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask questions about your injury or shoulder pain and do a physical exam to see how your shoulder is working. The exam may include tests of shoulder movement and strength and possibly an X-ray.
In order to decide whether further testing is required, your doctor will consider your age, occupation, and activity level. For instance, if you have a job that requires frequent overhead activity, you may need further testing. Such tests may include an MRI or ultrasound but are not usually done until you have first tried several weeks of rest, ice or heat, other home treatment measures, and rehabilitation exercises.
Home Treatment of Rotator Cuff Disorders
You can relieve the discomfort of a rotator cuff tear in a number of ways:
- Rest your injured shoulder and limit repetitive movement. Avoid strenuous activity especially where your arms move above your head.
- Do not put your arm in a sling. It can cause the joint to stiffen.
- Move your arm carefully and slowly through its full range of motion several times a day.
- Stop activities that hurt your shoulder such as playing golf or carrying heavy bags of groceries.
- Try applying ice to your shoulder for the first 48 hours after discomfort begins. Apply ice 2 to 3 times a day for about 20 minutes at a time. Be sure to place a thin towel between the ice pack and your body.
- After 2 to 3 days, start moving your shoulder with the aid of moist heat.
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