Shoulder Rotator Cuff Injury

Chiropractic treatment is beneficial for reducing the pain and increasing the pain free range of motion associated with a rotator cuff injury of the shoulder. The rotator cuff is the collective term used to describe the group of muscles whose roles are to control the position of the ball within the socket joint and to facilitate movement of the arm.

Rotator cuff injury can originate with a problem in the tendons of one of the rotator cuff muscles, the tendon may be inflamed, have a tear, a small hole within the tendon or have calcified and lost its elasticity with age. The muscles of the rotator cuff can also be damaged through strain of heavy, repetitive or unusual activities.

Symptoms that you have a problem with the muscle or tendon of the rotator cuff include pain on raising the arm, pain placing the arm behind your back, pain on certain movements such as pouring a kettle of water.

You may notice restricted movement in certain directions. Your pain may be felt at the front of and around the shoulder. The intensity of the pain will vary from person to person.

Chiropractic treatment of a rotator cuff injury includes establishing which muscles and tendons are involved and to what extent through a series of specific muscle and orthopaedic tests.

The biomechanics and function of the joints that make up the shoulder are assessed this includes the shoulder joint, shoulder blade and collar bone.
Chiropractic treatment for rotator cuff problems releases the pressure away from the injured muscle or tendon allowing healing to take place, the shoulder joint is manipulated to increase movement and the muscles relaxed.

With a rotator cuff treatment session, it may be applicable for your injury for tape to be applied to support the joint and encourage correct movement patterns following the treatment.

Goals of Chiropractic Care The main goals of chiropractic care in the treatment of Rotator cuff injury include:

  • Reduce the pain
  • Release restriction in the shoulder joint
  • Relax tight muscles
  • Stimulate nerves
  • Improve spinal function
  • Increase range of motion
  • Improve muscle activation and movement patterns