Rotator Cuff Problems
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The rotator cuff (RTC) is made up of a four tendon-muscle unit that helps to stabilize the shoulder and move the arm.1 Rotator cuff problems are usually associated with changes in the tendon that begin in the early decades of life.2 The frequency of partial and full thickness tearing increases as we age.2 Tears are occasionally caused by trauma, and in some cases are associated with boney spurring.2

Physical Therapy May Help to Avoid Rotator Cuff Surgery
Risk factors may include3 :
- Increasing age
- History of trauma
- Hand dominance (RTC tear more likely on the dominant side)
- Shoulder pain
- Shoulder weakness
- Inability to lift arm
- Disturbed sleep
_______________________________________Prevalence
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Up to 18 million adults in the United States reported shoulder pain in 2005.5 A study including 1,366 patients found that more than a third of those with shoulder symptoms had rotator cuff tears.3 The researchers found the prevalence of full-thickness rotator cuff tears to be 20.7% in the general population.6 It is common to have a rotator cuff tear without symptoms, but a tear may become symptomatic over time.6, 7
Physical Therapy Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tears
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A patient may be treated conservatively with physical therapy and medical care.1 In some cases, surgical management may be considered.1,8
Physical therapy treatment may consist of:
- Prescriptive Exercise 9,10
- Manual physical therapy 10,11
- Modalities such as ice and moist heat
Disclaimer: The views discussed on this website are for educational purposes only. Should you have any questions please consult your physician or physical therapist. Copyright© Kinesis Physical Therapy. All Rights Reserved.