Rotator Cuff Injuries

The Rotator Cuff (RC) is a common name for the group of 4 distinct muscles and their tendons, which provide strength and stability during a motion to the shoulder complex. They are Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres minor, and Subscapularis. The muscles arise from the scapula and connect to the head of the humerus, forming a cuff around the glenohumeral (GH) joint.

‍Rotator cuff injuries occur most often in people who repeatedly perform overhead motions in their jobs or sports. Rotator cuff tears are one of the leading causes of shoulder pain and shoulder-related disability.

The pain associated with rotator cuff injury may:

• Cause a dull ache and deep pain in the shoulder
• Disturbed sleep, mainly if you lie on the affected shoulder
• Make it difficult to comb your hair or reach behind your back
• Be accompanied by arm weakness
• Cause pain with overhead activities