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Rotator
cuff injuries
The
rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that connect the
upper arm bone and the shoulder joint. It's one of the most important
parts of the shoulder because it holds the shoulder joint in place
and allows us to lift our arm and reach overhead.
The
rotator cuff may tear because of a single strong impact, such as
a fall, or because of repeated overhead motion, such as in pitching
a ball, swimming, weightlifting or playing tennis.
A
rotator cuff tear may be partial or complete. A partial tear may
be treated with physical therapy alone, while a full thickness tear
usually requires surgery and physical therapy.
Physical
therapy for a rotator cuff tear may include:
- Exercises
to strengthen and stretch the muscles and tendons.
-
Ultrasound to warm the tissues under the skin.
- Exercises
to help restore full range of shoulder motion.
If
you're involved in a sport that requires throwing, CHRISTUS Spohn Rehabilitation Services offers a program geared specifically
toward regaining this ability, increasing your strength and endurance
slowly to prevent reinjury.
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