Rotator Cuff Impingement is caused by wear-and-tear injuries to the muscles due to poor posture. The rotator cuff is defined by the four muscles that surround and stabilize the shoulder joint. Small to medium-sized rotator cuff tears and impingement syndrome can be treated by occupational or physical therapy. A tear in the rotator cuff can result from changes in the shoulder muscles including:
- Instability of the shoulder joint
- Overuse of the shoulder muscles leading to degeneration
- Trauma
- Aging
- Insufficient blood supply to the muscles
- Impingement of the muscles by bones of the shoulder joint
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Pain in the shoulder region
- Arm weakness
- Difficulty with overhead motions
- Stiffness
- Difficulty and pain with daily activities
How Will Physical Therapy or Occupational Therapy Help?
During a Physical/Occupational Therapy session, you will:
- Restore mobility through soft tissue mobilization and range of motion exercises.
- Optimize posture by strengthening the muscles of the shoulder and upper body that contribute to postural stability.
- Strengthen the shoulder muscles to restore painless movement and increase stability.
- Learn prevention techniques to keep the tear from increasing in size and techniques in pain reduction and flexibility.
