What is the Rotator Cuff?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint and enable key shoulder movements. These muscles include:
- Supraspinatus
- Infraspinatus
- Teres Minor
- Subscapularis
Together, these muscles help maintain the stability of the shoulder joint by keeping the humeral head aligned within the glenoid cavity of the scapula during arm movements. They are essential for rotation, abduction, and elevation of the arm.
Roles of Each Muscle:
- Supraspinatus – Initiates abduction of the arm (lifting the arm away from the body).
- Infraspinatus – Performs external rotation of the arm.
- Teres Minor – Assists in external rotation of the arm.
- Subscapularis – Responsible for internal rotation of the arm.
Common Injuries of the Rotator Cuff:
- Tears – Partial or complete tearing of one or more rotator cuff tendons. Often caused by trauma or degenerative wear and tear, especially with aging or repetitive overhead use.
- Bursitis – Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction in the shoulder joint. This often occurs alongside rotator cuff irritation.
- Tendinitis – Inflammation of the tendons, usually due to overuse or repetitive strain. Common in athletes or individuals performing frequent overhead activities.
- Impingement – Occurs when rotator cuff tendons become compressed or pinched between the humeral head and the acromion, typically during overhead arm movements.
Role of Physical Therapy in Rotator Cuff Injuries:
Physical therapy is essential in the management and recovery of rotator cuff injuries. Its main goals are to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve strength and function of the shoulder.
Key Functions of Physical Therapy:
- Pain and Inflammation Management – Modalities such as heat, or electrical stimulation may be used in treatment.
- Improving Range of Motion (ROM) – Guided exercise to help restore flexibility and reduce joint stiffness.
- Strengthening Exercises – Focuses on the rotator cuff and surrounding shoulder muscles to regain strength and prevent future injury.
- Postural Correction and Biomechanics – Improves shoulder alignment and movement patterns to reduce strain.
- Functional Training – Helps patients return to daily activities, sports, or work tasks through progressive exercise that is tailored to each individual need
- Post-Surgical Rehabilitation – After rotator cuff surgery, therapy helps protect the repair, regain motion, and rebuild strength over several months.
