Discovering the Impact of Rotator Cuff Tears on Shoulder Mobility and Function
The rotator cuff is a complex system of muscles and tendons that connect the upper arm bone (humerus) to the shoulder blade (scapula), providing crucial stability and flexibility to the shoulder joint. Made up of four key muscles, any injury or tearing within the rotator cuff can result in discomfort, weakness, and limited range of motion. In more severe cases, a rotator cuff tear can significantly impede the ability to lift the arm, making everyday activities challenging.
If you find it difficult to raise your arm or experience pain and discomfort during daily tasks, it’s time to take action. Contact Ozark Physical Therapy Specialists in Mountain Home, AR today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward restoring shoulder function, alleviating pain, and enhancing your overall quality of life.
How did I tear my rotator cuff?
Rotator cuff tears can occur as a result of an accident or develop over time. A fall, a hit, or a forceful force pulling the arm might cause injuries. Tears that develop over time are more common and are caused by rotator cuff wear and tear. The rotator cuff is primarily damaged by repetitive overhead activities, such as painting walls, washing windows, playing tennis, swimming, or lifting weights inappropriately.
Posture is also a factor, as slouching or hunching your shoulders forward decreases the space available for the rotator cuff to move freely, causing friction. This can lead to inflammation and, eventually, a tear. Some symptoms to look out for include:
- Pain In The Upper Arm, (Which Can Worsen With Movement)
- Pain When Lifting
- Poor Posture
- Pain When Sleeping
Depending on the type of tear, there may also be difficulty lifting the arm or reaching behind the head and back.
How can a rotator cuff be treated?
Depending on the severity and size of the tear, therapy can bring much relief and allow a full recovery in many cases. If the size of the tear is too large, or complex, then surgery may be required. Our very own Crystal Henry has lectured on the topic of shoulder rehab at various venues to teach other therapists the ins and outs of the latest evidence based treatment of Rotator Cuff tears as well as other complex shoulder issues. We work closely to help you avoid surgery if possible, and communicate closely with your Doctor in cases in which surgery is the best option. With a well-planned program to progress, many patients find that specialized shoulder therapy relieves their symptoms and allows them to avoid surgery. Additionally, seeing therapists or other health care providers that may not have this expertise may lead to worsening of tears through improper or incorrect loading of the tendons or placing too great a demand on the shoulder early on. Under the guidance of a therapist specializing in upper extremity rehab, you can rest assured that treatments offered won’t make your situation worse, and we can help differentiate between a strain that has the potential to improve without surgery, or if needed recommend a surgical consult.
If surgery is necessary to repair the torn tendons, the arm may be held in a sling for four to six weeks. After surgery, we will explain how to safely move while protecting the repair. A repair can be damaged if these restrictions are not followed. So having a therapist with experience with shoulders is critical for optimal recovery. Our Occupational Therapists have a combined experience of over 40 years treating shoulders, and have both experienced the challenges of recovering from shoulder injury and issues.
What can a Specialized Therapist at Ozark Physical Therapy Specialists do for me?
If you have suffered a rotator cuff tear and require surgery, finding the relief you seek may be possible through our team of experts.. Under the guidance of our skilled therapists, your progress will be closely monitored, following the specific instructions provided by your surgeon. Initially, therapy will focus on regaining shoulder motion through passive movement, where the healthy arm assists in moving the affected arm.
To manage pain, heat and ice modalities may be utilized. Our therapists can also provide demonstrations of safe techniques for performing daily activities and adopting proper sleeping positions to alleviate nighttime discomfort. As the surgical repair heals, the arm will regain independent mobility, allowing for strengthening exercises. Therapy may also incorporate exercises aimed at improving posture and core strength. Furthermore, the therapist will provide guidance on returning to hobbies, sports, and work once your rotator cuff has fully healed.
Often, patients find it very beneficial to schedule a pre-surgical consult, where our expert therapists will provide education on how to best prepare for your upcoming surgery, help fit your immobilizer to you for success from day one, and educate you on various self-care and sleeping positions. We find that patients that elect to initiate their shoulder journey in this manner have better outcomes, feel empowered and in control of their recovery from the very start all the way to the finish.
Give our clinic a call today
Discover the evidence-based benefits of expert shoulder rehab from our team of therapists in the treatment of rotator cuff tears. Contact Ozark Physical Therapy Specialists in Mountain Home, AR today to schedule an appointment and embark on your journey towards recovery and restored shoulder function.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!