ROTATOR CUFF TENDINOPATHY

What is rotator cuff tendinopathy?

Rotator cuff tendinopathy refers to pain in one or more of the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles in the shoulder. A tendon is the structure that attaches the muscle to the bone. The rotator cuff muscles are the four muscles which co-ordinate and stabilise the shoulder joint. Specifically they stabilise the head of the humerus in its socket. Tendinopathy is a common cause of shoulder pain in sports people, office workers and people who do a lot of overhead activities.

What causes rotator cuff tendinopathy?

Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy often commences when a person over loads their shoulder either with repetitive activities or with weighted activities. It can also come on with altered or unfamiliar activities like starting a new sport or new program at the gym. The tendon becomes swollen and may become ‘impinged’ or caught between the bony structures of the shoulder during certain movements. Typically sufferers report pain with overhead activities such as tennis, swimming, throwing a ball or hanging out the washing. Assessment often reveals incoordination of the rotator cuff muscles and weakness of the muscles about the shoulder blade.

How can physiotherapy help rotator cuff tendinopathy?

Axis Physiotherapists can assess the severity of the shoulder problem and prescribe an appropriate treatment program. Treatment involves identification and correction or cessation of the causative activity. Some people benefit from massage to release tight overworked muscles and relieve pain. Exercise to strengthen and improve control in the muscles about the shoulder is essential for complete resolution of the problem and return to sport. If left untreated some rotator cuff tendonipathies can develop into rotator cuff tendon tears. Rotator cuff tears are more serious and often require surgery so if your shoulder has started to become sore get it assessed by your physiotherapist as early as possible.

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