What is this infamous rotator cuff?

By Megan Mac Vay

I have often heard people mention that they have or have previously had a “rotator cuff” problem but rarely have these persons actually known or understood what a rotator cuff is or what the injury was to begin with. This may be the result of poor explanation from the practitioner, but most often is as a result of this term being freely used amongst the general public for any sort of shoulder pain or injury.

So today I am going to hopefully clear up any misunderstandings. Your rotator cuff is made up of the muscles and tendons deep within your shoulder joint which connect your upper arm bone (Humerus) with your shoulder blade (Scapula). They also help hold the ball of your humerus firmly in your shoulder socket. The combination results in the

greatest range of motion of any joint in your body and provides an unbelievable strength and stability used in everyday life but most importantly in so many sports (I.e. Bowling in cricket). Therefore, in terms of importance, this area of your body may be considered your most valuable feature.

An injury to your rotator cuff includes any type of irritation or damage to your rotator cuff muscles or the tendons, and as such there are three classifications of an injury associated with it:

• Strain – The tendons stretch but do not tear.
• Partial Tear – There is a partial tear to a tendon but it does not completely sever.
• Full Tear – The tendon or muscle tears completely.

Injuries (of each classification) can result from a multitude of movements, forces, and other factors including:

• Attempting to block/cushion a fall with one’s upper arm.
• Thrusting one’s arm up forcefully against resistance.
• Excessive overhead activity.
• Repetitive trauma.
• Degeneration of muscles (with age or use).
• Lack of blood supply.
• Bone spurs (bone overgrowth).

Injury to this area can leave you with large losses of ability and independence, unless you take the steps necessary to rehabilitate the rotator cuff muscles and/or tendons involved before, during and after dysfunction.

Some causes of injury to your rotator cuff, such as degeneration, may take longer to become evident than others. Despite the differences due to the various causes however, there are some telltale signs that you have incurred an injury.

They are:

• Pain when resting, particularly when lying on the injured arm/shoulder.
• Pain during specific movements, such as lowering or lifting your arm.
• Weakness, difficulty lowering or rotating your arm/shoulder.
• A crackling sensation during certain arm/shoulder movements.
• Difficulty with routine activities such as hair brushing.
• Loss of range of motion.

For minor injuries, you can care for your shoulder at home, with rest, cold packs, and over the counter pain medication. Rest implies that you limit the number of overhead and other straining activities you may normally do. Should you get to the point that the pain does not go away with such care however, you will want and need to see a doctor who may advise physiotherapy or exercise with a Biokineticist.

In conclusion, pain in the shoulder region can often be as a result of an injury to the rotator cuff muscles or tendons but will need to be diagnosed by a medical professional. If you do suspect a minor injury, be careful and respect the joint. Should the pain and disability increase, please find medical assistance as soon as possible so as to avoid further injury to the region.