Rotator Cuff Tear Therapy

The Rotator Cuff is the name for the tendons that surround the shoulder joint. It is important in lending stability to the shoulder and allowing wide range of motion to perform a variety of tasks with the arm, more than any other joint in the body.

The rotator cuff tear is a common injury. It makes many routine activities difficult and painful and can cause significant disability. Injuries are mostly due to repeated activities and trauma such as falling on an outstretched arm, which is usually among patients younger than 60 years old.

Therapy can help relieve pain and restore function whether the rotator cuff injury requires surgery or not. It can include:

• Modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation or Iontophoresis.
• Joint and soft tissue mobilization.
• Exercises to help improve posture and flexibility and to strengthen muscles.
• Education about body mechanics and proper posture/ movements to decrease stress on the Rotator cuff.

For additional information you can contact the Rehabilitation Services Department at UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center by calling 410-787-4433.