What is a Rotator Cuff?
A rotator cuff is the anatomical name given to the group of tendons and muscles in the head of the shoulder where it connects to the scapula or shoulder blade. The rotator cuff is aptly named, as it is a part of the shoulder that allows for the up, down, back, and forward or rotating movements of the shoulder. When you roll or shrug your shoulders, the tendons of the rotator cuff are expanding and contracting.
The rotator cuff is comprised of four muscles and their tendons which form a “cuff” over the top of the humerus. The rotator cuff not only allows movement, but also helps provide stability to the ball of the shoulder in the joint. In adults, a rotator cuff injury or torn rotator cuff is common.
Either through acute injury such as a fall or chronic injury caused by repetitive motion or strain, the rotator cuff tendons and muscles can become strained or torn. A rotator cuff injury is most common in adults over the age of 40 and is frequently related to work or sports. An individual who performs work above his or her head, such as a painter or construction worker, is susceptible to rotator cuff injury. Similarly, athletes such as tennis players, swimmers, and pitchers commonly experience rotator cuff injuries.
Symptoms of a torn rotator cuff include pain in the shoulder, pain that radiates down the arm, and limited mobility due to pain. Diagnosis of a torn rotator cuff includes a history of symptoms, physical examination, and X-ray or other imaging tests. Non-operative treatment is attempted before surgery in most cases. Restricted use of the arm and a sling, in conjunction with anti-inflammatory medication or steroid injections, are common non-surgical treatments. If the affected area does not recover from the injury with non-operative treatment, or if the problem is chronic and recurring, an orthopedic surgeon may recommend rotator cuff surgery to repair the tendons and muscles.
Rotator cuff surgery is fairly common. Recovery may take several months and usually requires physical therapy and exercises for a short period of time following surgery. Many patients who undergo rotator cuff surgery recover with complete mobility and full use of the affected arm. In some cases, such as with athletes, use may be limited to prevent subsequent injuries.
Written by J. Beam
