Rotator Cuff
The rotator cuff can be impacted by damage to any one of the four muscles and the various ligaments that provide mobility and stabilization to the shoulder joint. Damage can occur because of acute injury, chronic overuse or the effects of aging. This can cause significant pain and disability in the shoulder joint.
Symptoms of a rotator cuff injury include swelling caused by inflammation, which results in pain, or a deep ache, and decreased range of motion. A sudden tear may cause acute pain. A damaged rotator cuff may also cause arthritis or calcium deposits over time.
Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff
Following diagnosis or surgical treatment, physical therapy is vital to return the shoulder to improved function. At Arrow Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation, we will do both passive, or range of motion, and active exercises, those requiring the patient to strengthen the area.
We work closely with rotator cuff patients’ surgeons to follow a specific protocol, as each surgery and surgeon has its own unique approach. In addition, statistics show that patients who receive physical therapy (PT) pre-surgery are known to have superior outcomes (e.g. significantly faster recovery) than those who only receive PT post-operatively. Emphasis is placed on passive range of motion and active range of motion exercises, joint mobility and modalities for pain. Patient education provides for proper movement technique, ongoing exercises and injury prevention techniques.
Modalities: Cold laser and/or infrared light therapy, ultrasound, electric stimulation, icing.
Related Services:
For more information, Contact Us Today.
Latest Blogs
Our 3-step guide to using a foam roller for knee pain
Research shows that about 1 out of every 4 adults in the U.S. experiences chronic knee pain. That’s a massive portion of the population that experiences knee pain on more than one occasion. There are lots of reasons why one might experience it, including...
3 possible reasons why you feel dizzy while driving
Many people experience dizziness while driving at least once in their lifetime, if not more. It can be troubling and confusing, to say the least. It is also dangerous. Dizziness can impair your driving ability and potentially put you and others around you in...
5 things you can do throughout the day to help prevent shoulder pain after sleeping
According to a poll, 10% of Americans wake up with pain on a daily basis. Whether you sleep on your side, stomach or back, your sleeping position can contribute to your shoulder pain. Thankfully, making small changes in your daily routine can help you limit the number...