Painters, Pitchers, and Power Lifters – All at Risk for Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries are among the most common and painful shoulder-related injuries in adults, especially in people who exercise a lot. The rotator cuff (or musculotendinous cuff) in the shoulder is made up of tendons and muscles covering the shoulder joint. The rotator cuff helps to keep the shoulder in place and also works to lift and move the shoulder. Rotator cuff injuries treated at Spine and Sports Medicine are seen as a range from an impingement -- which occurs when the shoulder blade rubs or “impinges” on the rotator cuff when the arm is lifted -- all the way through a complete tear. In the mid range, the rubbing of the rotator cuff can cause injuries such as tendonitis, bursitis (inflammation of the bursa, which covers the rotator cuff), or a partial tear. Rotator cuff injuries are linked to limiting of movement of the shoulder and a dull ache in the upper arm and shoulder. At first the pain is mild but can become stronger over time. Rotator cuff injuries are common in people who lift their arms a lot, especially in athletes and in workers with heavy lifting duties.

Labels: NYC, Rotator Cuff, shoulder, spine and sports medicine, Sport Injury

Posted by Spine and Sports Medicine on 3:40 AM