Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles located around the shoulder joint. They work to stabilise and rotate the humerus within the socket. Due to the large freedom of movement within the shoulder joint as well as the unstable nature of the joint, shoulder injuries are common.
One of the common injuries seen within the shoulder are rotator cuff injuries. These may consist of a tendinopathy, a tear or rupture. These injuries may occur due to repetitive activities such as overhead lifting, poor technique particularly in throwing or racket sports, a direct blow to the shoulder such as a fall, or gradual wear and tear of the rotator cuff tendons. Injuries may be acute (sudden onset), or degenerative (happens over time).
Symptoms of rotator cuff injury may include reduced shoulder mobility, pain, and weakness.
Often small tears will be managed conservatively with physiotherapy, whilst larger tears or ruptures may require surgery prior to physiotherapy. Physiotherapy treatment includes rest from aggravating activities, and a rehabilitation program. Exercises to strengthen the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles will assist in providing stability around the shoulder. Postural correction and optimal functioning of the shoulder blade can also assist, as well as taping techniques. Manual therapies may also be required such as massage, joint mobilisations, dry needling or electrotherapy.
Bursitis
The shoulder houses many fluid-filled sacs called bursa. These bursa provide cushioning and lubrication around the shoulder. Causes of bursitis may be due to poor postures, putting increased strain on the shoulder. If you have rounded shoulders and a slumped posture, this will cause the scapula (shoulder blade) to be pulled forward. This can cause excess strain or impingement on the bursa when the individual is lifting their arm. Bursitis may also occur due to a direct blow or injury such as a fall on the shoulder.
Bursitis can be secondary or co-exist with other shoulder injuries such as a rotator cuff tears or tendinopathy.
Physiotherapy involves correcting the shoulder blade positioning, mechanics and posture via exercises, as well as techniques such as myofascial release, massage, dry needling and joint mobilisations to release muscle tightness to enable optimal scapula function.
Physiotherapists can assess your shoulder injury to provide diagnosis of injury. Sometimes a scan such as ultrasound or MRI may be required to further investigate or rule out other issues if the condition is not improving.
If you are suffering a shoulder injury its best to have it assessed by a physiotherapist sooner rather than later, before it becomes more serious. With prompt treatment, often the issue can be settled quicker. To make a time for an initial assessment contact the clinic on (03) 5964 2393.