Conditions we Treat
Rotator Cuff Injuries
Introduction.
Rotator cuff injuries are a common cause of shoulder pain and can make everyday activities such as reaching overhead, lifting, dressing or sleeping on your side uncomfortable. While shoulder pain can be frustrating, many rotator cuff problems respond well to appropriate management. A thorough assessment is the best way to identify the likely cause of your symptoms and discuss the most appropriate treatment options.
What is it?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that help stabilise and move your shoulder. A rotator cuff injury is an umbrella term that includes tendon irritation, tendinopathy and partial or full-thickness tears. These problems may develop gradually through repeated loading or occur more suddenly following an injury, depending on the individual.
Symptoms.
Rotator cuff injuries commonly cause pain around the outside or front of the shoulder, particularly when reaching overhead, lifting objects or lying on the affected side. You may also notice weakness, reduced movement or discomfort during everyday activities. Seek prompt medical assessment if pain follows significant trauma, you are unable to lift your arm, or you notice a sudden loss of strength or obvious shoulder deformity.
Causes.
Rotator cuff injuries rarely result from one single cause. Repetitive overhead activities, sport, manual work, age-related tendon changes, previous shoulder injuries and sudden increases in activity can all contribute. Many tendon changes occur naturally with age and may not cause symptoms, so a thorough assessment is important to determine what is most relevant in your case.
How we can help…
Following a detailed assessment, we will explain whether your symptoms are consistent with a rotator cuff injury and discuss the most appropriate management options. Depending on your presentation, this may include chiropractic treatment where appropriate, manual therapy, rehabilitation, education and advice. Recommendations are always based on your assessment findings, goals and preferences, and referral will be arranged if clinically indicated.
Rehabilitation and self-management.
Rehabilitation is often a key part of recovering from a rotator cuff injury. Maintaining comfortable shoulder movement, gradually strengthening the shoulder and modifying activities that aggravate symptoms can support recovery. Your advice will be tailored to your symptoms and stage of recovery, helping you return safely to work, sport and everyday activities.
What to expect at your assessment.
Your appointment begins with a discussion about your symptoms, medical history, work, hobbies and goals before an appropriate physical examination. We will assess your shoulder movement, strength and function, explain our findings in straightforward language and answer your questions. If imaging or referral to another healthcare professional is clinically appropriate, we will discuss this with you.
What happens next.
Following your assessment, we will explain the likely diagnosis, discuss your prognosis and outline the management options available. If appropriate, we will create a personalised management plan designed around your goals and monitor your progress over time. Recovery varies between individuals depending on the nature and severity of the injury and your daily demands.