Rotator Cuff Injuries › Treatment › Services

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What are rotator cuff muscles?

The rotator cuff muscles control rotation of the shoulder. They consist of the infraspinatus, teres minor and suprapinatus which rotate the shoulder outwards. The subscapularis rotates the shoulder inward.

These muscles are put under a great deal of strain especially in throwing events and racquet sports where the arm is above the head a lot. A sudden sharp pain in the shoulder could indicate a possible rupture of a tendon, while a gradual onset is more likely to be inflammation.

What are the symptoms of a rotator cuff injury?

  • Pain during overhead activity, such as throwing or racquet sports
  • Pain when you bend the arm and rotate it outwards against resistance
  • Pain on the outside of the shoulder, possibly radiating down into the arm
  • Pain in the shoulder, which is worse at night
  • Stiffness in the shoulder joint

What can I do for a rotator cuff injury?

  • Rest and ice the shoulder for two to four days depending on the severity of the injury.
  • If the acute stage is over, and pain and inflammation have declined, apply heat.
  • See your physician or a Saint Vincent Sports Medicine specialist for advice on treatment and rehabilitation.

What can a sports medicine specialist do?

  • Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication
  • Apply modalities such as heat, electrical stimulation or ultrasound
  • Prescribe a rehabilitation program
  • Use sports massage and stretching techniques
  • Injections if necessary
  • Operate if needed

How can I prevent a rotator cuff injury?

Work on strengthening your rotator cuff muscles by doing outward rotation exercises with elastic bands or light weights.

For more information about rotator cuff injury prevention and treatment, contact Saint Vincent Sports Medicine at 814-835-2035.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a health care professional.