Injury of the Week - Rotator Cuff Tear

The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles and their tendons that act to stabilize the shoulder joint as well as lift and rotate the arm.  A tear of the tendons occurs as a result of overuse, traumatic fall or blow to the shoulder or aging.  A complete tear usually leaves the injured person unable to raise the arm away from the side.  

The tendons of four muscles make up the rotator cuff. The muscles are the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. The tendons attach the muscles to four shoulder bones: the shoulder blade (scapula), the upper arm bone (humerus), and the collarbone (clavicles.)

Athletes most prone to this injury are pitchers, swimmers, tennis players and quarterbacks due to the repetitive throwing motion or overhead arm movement.  Those in occupations that require heavy lifting are also at risk. 

Symptoms:

• Pain over the deltoid muscle at the top and outer side of the shoulder, particularly when the arm is raised or extended out
• Pain when getting dressed; arm may feel weak
• Hearing a click or pop when the shoulder is moved
• Pain in the front of your shoulder that radiates down the side of your arm
• Stiffness and loss of motion

If you experience any of these symptoms you should immediately make an appointment to visit your doctor.  They will perform various diagnostic examinations likely including an X-ray, MRI, arthography, range of motion and instability testing. 

Treating a Rotator Cuff Tear:

• Rest and limited overhead activity
• Ice
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Steroid injection
• Strengthening and physical therapy
• Surgery as a last resort

It may take several weeks or months to restore the strength and mobility to your shoulder.

Role of massage in treating a rotator cuff tear:

After diagnosis occurs, in the acute phase gentle massage can increase circulation and lymphatic drainage around the affected area.  By massaging in the same direction of the muscle fibers and towards the site of injury, massage can promote reconnection of the ends of the torn fibers. 

By working the area properly during this pivotal healing time, scar tissue can be minimized allowing fuller range of motion to the shoulder joint.  Scar tissue generally restricts movement because it is not as pliable as healthy tissue.  Therefore, addressing this early may improve the rate of healing and long term mobility. 

Post acute phase, cross fiber friction massage to the affected area can be used along with full body massage to address overall compensation patterns due to the injury.