shoulder pain

The Mechanics of a Rotator Cuff Injury: Understanding How the Shoulder Works

January 13, 20253 min read

The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body, and the rotator cuff is at the heart of its functionality. This group of muscles and tendons stabilizes the shoulder and allows for a wide range of motion. However, its complexity also makes it vulnerable to injury. Understanding how the rotator cuff works can help you better prevent and manage injuries.

What Is the Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their associated tendons:

  1. Supraspinatus – Lifts the arm and provides stability.

  2. Infraspinatus – Helps rotate the arm outward.

  3. Teres Minor – Assists in external rotation.

  4. Subscapularis – Facilitates inward rotation.

These muscles work together to keep the shoulder joint stable while allowing for a wide range of movements, from throwing a ball to reaching overhead.

How Does the Shoulder Work?

The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint, which means the head of the upper arm bone (humerus) fits into a shallow socket in the shoulder blade (scapula). The rotator cuff acts as a dynamic stabilizer, holding the humeral head in the socket during movement.

This design gives the shoulder remarkable mobility, but it also means the joint relies heavily on the rotator cuff for stability. Without proper function, the shoulder becomes prone to dislocation, impingement, or overuse injuries.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Injuries to the rotator cuff can occur in several ways, including:

  1. Overuse
    Repeated overhead movements, common in sports like tennis or activities like painting, can strain the rotator cuff and lead to tendinitis or tears.

  2. Trauma
    A sudden fall or accident can cause an acute tear in the rotator cuff, especially in the supraspinatus tendon.

  3. Degeneration
    With age, the tendons in the rotator cuff can weaken, making them more susceptible to injury.

  4. Impingement
    When the rotator cuff is compressed between the shoulder blade and the arm bone, it can lead to inflammation and pain.

Signs of a Rotator Cuff Injury

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it could indicate a rotator cuff injury:

  • Pain when lifting or lowering your arm.

  • Weakness in the shoulder.

  • Difficulty with overhead movements.

  • A clicking or popping sensation when moving the shoulder.

Preventing Rotator Cuff Injuries

While some risk factors, like aging, are unavoidable, you can take steps to protect your rotator cuff:

  1. Strengthen Supporting Muscles: Exercises that target the shoulder, back, and core help improve overall stability.

  2. Avoid Overhead Repetition: Be mindful of activities that require repeated overhead movements.

  3. Practice Proper Technique: Whether lifting weights or playing sports, correct form is key to avoiding strain.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy plays a critical role in both preventing and recovering from rotator cuff injuries. A physiotherapist can assess your shoulder mechanics, guide you through strengthening and stretching exercises, and provide techniques to reduce pain and inflammation.

Shoulder Health Starts with Understanding

The rotator cuff is an incredible part of your body, but it requires care to function properly. By understanding how this system works and taking proactive steps, you can protect your shoulder from injury and maintain your active lifestyle.

At All Care Physiotherapy, we’re here to help you understand, recover from, and prevent rotator cuff injuries. Reach out today to learn more about how we can support your shoulder health.

All Care Physiotherapy

All Care Physiotherapy was established by Patrick Cruice in 1994 and has consistently provided a high standard of Physiotherapy care to the CBD and surrounding inner Brisbane city residents and professionals, as well as the broader community.

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