Rotator Cuff Impingement

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.