Shoulder Pain - Rotator Cuff Tear

SYMPTOMS COMMONLY ASSOCIATED WITH A ROTATOR CUFF TEAR MAY INCLUDE:

• Shoulder pain that may radiate down arm towards elbow
• Shoulder pain with overhead activities
• Shoulder pain with reaching behind, placing hand behind back or reaching for seat belt
• Shoulder pain at night 
• Weakness and difficulty lifting arm

SHORT TERM

DIAGNOSE

Diagnosis is a vital part of managing any injury. Not only is it important to determine which structures are responsible for our symptoms, but why they have become symptomatic. Addressing the ‘why’ will ensure adequate recovery and prevention of future injury. 

MOTOR CONTROL

Improving motor control is essential. The shoulder is a complex joint that if not well controlled can quickly load structures adversely and result in pain and discomfort. This includes movement at the scapula and glenohumeral joint. Strengthening can commence once good motor control and patterning has been established.

SOFT TISSUE TECHNIQUES & DRY NEEDLING

These strategies can be beneficial in addressing muscle function and joint position

TAPE

Taping to correct scapula position can increase awareness and may be beneficial in the short term, particularly in rotator cuff tears caused or being aggravated by subacromial impingement.

REST

Initial rest from aggravating factors is important to reduce the inflammatory response of affected tissues

LONG TERM

STRENGTHENING

A progression of strengthening into a gym based environment to appropriately address contributing factors and restore should function is often required to address symptoms, and reduce the risk of future injury.

REFERRAL

Referral for imaging, or to other health practitioners such as GP, sports physicians or orthopaedic surgeons is sometimes advised.