What is a Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy?
You have heard people say "I injured my rotator cuffs!" before. So what does that mean? Let's talk about it.
Firstly, it is called the rotator cuff. It is made up from four different shoulder muscles that all play a role in both stabilization along with larger functions for which the shoulder is needed. From lifting and throwing to support and control, the rotator cuff muscles are needed for several functions all the time. It is easy to take for granted how much they do unless you have injured one or multiple of those muscles.
The rotator cuff can be easily injured unfortunately. The shoulder being a very mobile joint has the needs of both great access to motion in a wide range, along with stability of the shoulder joint in connection to the thorax of the body. If an injury occurs to one of the muscles of the rotator cuff but does not cause a tearing of the muscle or tendon, changes to that tissue occur. The common term for that injury is a Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy, this means that tissue changes have happened. That change can occur from both traumatic injury, sports and work related activities, as well as degenerative changes.
Are there treatment options that don't require surgeries or shots?
Many people are looking for conservative options when it comes to injuries, and I imagine you are hoping for the same. At ChiroMovement MJC we go in depth on our assessment of the shoulder. Initially our objective is to make sure you are a candidate for conservative treatment options. If there are no signs of partial or full thickness tearing, nor any red flags to treatment than we begin building out your treatment plan.
We are able to offer more than just joint manipulation of the shoulder for your care. We know that our first goal is to address any inflammation locally and systemically that can be affecting the shoulder. The shoulder needs inputs to make changes to the tissue for inflammation, strength and ability.
- Class IV Laser Therapy
- Intermuscular Electrical Stimulation
- Myofascial Therapy
- End Range Loading
- Joint Capsular Space
- Strengthening Internal Strength Model
Our principles of treatment are that we educate about the condition, build a plan together to reach your goals of healing and strengthen the tissues needed to regain access to movements, skills and sports needs.