ROTATOR CUFFS: Shoulder pain? Don’t ignore it

BY: HUNTER GREENE, M.D. 

   The rotator cuff is composed of four relatively small muscles in the shoulder that keep the ball of the shoulder joint in place. The job may sound simple, but the tremendous force of throwing and overhead sports puts great strain on those muscles. If they fail, a combination of pain, weakness and inefficient mechanics may limit your athletic performance. 

   The good news is that rotator cuff problems usually can be prevented through a targeted strengthening program and, if caught early, these injuries can often be treated without surgery.

Early warning signs of a rotator cuff injury include :

Ҽ Minor pain with activity and at rest

“º Pain radiating from the front of the shoulder to the side of the arm 

“º Sudden pain with lifting and reaching movements 

“º Pain when throwing or serving a tennis ball Signs of a more advanced rotator cuff injury include : 

Ҽ Pain at night

Ҽ Weakness or a sense of instability in the shoulder

Ҽ Pain reaching behind your back

   The first step in treatment is to figure out why you’re experiencing rotator cuff pain. Is it weakness, poor flexibility, improper mechanics or an anatomical abnormality? Once we know what’s causing the problem, we can develop a rehab program that may include strengthening exercises, stretches and manual therapy, along with a period of activity modification, icing, and anti-inflammatory medication.

   Don’t ignore shoulder pain. Treating rotator cuff problems early can mean the difference between a rapid return to the game and an extended absence while recovering from surgery. 

Hunter Greene, M.D., is a board certified orthopedic surgeon with Summit Orthopedic Specialists in Carmichael. He specializes in adult and pediatric sports medicine.