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The Benefits of Massage Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

massage therapy for rotator cuff tears

A rotator cuff tear is a very common injury, affecting people of all ages. It occurs when the tendons that connect the four muscles around the shoulder joint are torn or damaged. Massage can be an effective treatment for all stages of a rotator cuff tear and help you regain the full range of motion in your shoulder. Let’s take a closer look at how massage can help treat a rotator cuff tear.

How Massage Can Help with Rotator Cuff Tears

Massage is used to reduce inflammation, improve the range of motion, and alleviate pain caused by a rotator cuff tear. During massage sessions, registered massage therapists (RMT) use techniques such as deep tissue massage, trigger point release, and myofascial release to break up scar tissue and encourage healing. Massage also helps to improve circulation in the area, which provides more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and tendons that make up the rotator cuff.

In addition to reducing inflammation and improving circulation, massage can also reduce muscle tension around the affected area. This helps reduce strain on the affected muscles, which makes it easier for them to heal properly. Furthermore, massage increases endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers—which can help ease discomfort caused by a rotator cuff tear.

Finally, regular massage sessions can help ensure that your shoulder is correctly aligned while it heals from a rotator cuff tear. This will prevent further damage or misalignment as you recover from your injury. Regular massages will also keep your shoulder flexible and strong so that you can return to activities like sports or manual labor without any issues after healing is complete.

You may also want to consider using physiotherapy or chiropractic care for your rotator cuff tear. In conjunction with massage, working with a chiropractor or physiotherapist for your rotator cuff tear can yield positive results.

In summary, massage is an important aspect of treating a rotator cuff tear since it helps reduce inflammation and muscle tension while improving circulation in the affected area. In addition to providing symptom relief during recovery time, regular massages will also ensure proper alignment while helping you regain strength in your shoulder after healing is complete. If you have recently been diagnosed and you’re looking for the best treatment for a rotator cuff tear or another shoulder injury, consider looking into massage as part of your treatment plan.

If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Sam Heslip, RMT, or another RMT in Waterloo or Kitchener at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!

Picture of Sam Heslip, BSc (Hons), RMT

Sam Heslip, BSc (Hons), RMT

Massage Therapist
Sam completed an Honours Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Kinetics from the University of Guelph before furthering his knowledge of the human body at Mohawk College where he graduated from the Massage program. Sam is trained in a variety of massage techniques including general Swedish massage, joint mobilizations, and myofascial release. Sam strives to help people reach their health goals. Whether you are recovering from injury, dealing with stress, pain or discomfort, Sam will get you back to feeling your best.

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