The shoulder joint is a complex structure that enables us to perform various activities, from lifting weights to throwing a ball. However, this flexibility also makes it susceptible to injuries, and one of the most common ones is rotator cuff tear. This injury affects millions of people worldwide and can be debilitating if not treated appropriately. In this blog post, we will explore what triggers rotator cuff tear and insights from physiotherapists and chiropractors on how to prevent and treat it.
Rotator cuff tear can occur due to several factors, including age-related degeneration, overuse or repetitive motion, sudden trauma or injury, heavy lifting or carrying objects overhead for extended periods. According to physiotherapists, these factors can lead to tears in the tendons that connect the four muscles of the rotator cuff to the shoulder bone. As we age, our tendons become less elastic and more prone to tears. Overuse or repetitive motion can cause micro-tears in the tendons that accumulate over time until they become a significant injury.
Chiropractors add that poor posture can contribute to rotator cuff tear since it puts excessive strain on the shoulder joint and muscles. Hunching forward while working at a computer or carrying a heavy backpack regularly can put stress on the muscles surrounding the shoulder blade leading to muscle imbalances. These imbalances may result in poor joint alignment increasing pressure on the rotator cuff muscles leading to tears.
Physiotherapists recommend preventive measures such as proper warm-up exercises before engaging in physical activity involving shoulder movements like weightlifting or throwing a ball. Stretching before exercise helps improve blood flow circulation around your shoulders preparing them for any physical activity ahead. Additionally, frequent rest breaks during extended periods of overhead work help reduce the risk of overuse injury.
Chiropractors suggest maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing or walking. This can be achieved by keeping your shoulders back and down, chest up, and chin slightly tucked in to keep the spine straight. Also, they recommend using ergonomically designed chairs and desks that support good posture while working on a computer. Chiropractors also emphasize the benefits of routine chiropractic adjustments to help improve joint mobility and reduce muscle tension around the shoulder blade area.
In instances where rotator cuff tear has occurred, physiotherapists advise seeking medical attention immediately to avoid further damage. Treatment may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), pain relief measures like medication or physiotherapy exercises that aim at strengthening the muscles surrounding the torn tendon. In severe cases where conservative methods fail to provide relief, surgery may be necessary.
Understanding what triggers rotator cuff tear is vital in preventing and treating this debilitating injury effectively. Physiotherapists and chiropractors offer unique insights into preventive measures such as proper warm-up exercises before physical activity involving shoulder movements like weightlifting or throwing a ball. They also recommend maintaining good posture
while sitting, standing or walking as well as frequent rest breaks during extended periods of overhead work. Seeking medical attention immediately after a rotator cuff tear occurs is crucial in avoiding further damage. With these preventive measures and treatment options from healthcare professionals like physiotherapists and chiropractors, one can manage rotator cuff tears effectively and regain full shoulder function.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
