Rotator cuff tendinitis
Rotator cuff tendinitis results in the irritation and inflammation of the tendons of the rotator cuff muscles. It is a common injury in most sports requiring overhead arm movements, such as swimming, tennis, volleyball and weightlifting. The condition is also called the pitcher’s shoulder.
Rotator cuff injury causes
Irritation of the subacromial bursa of the rotator cuff causes swelling and inflammation. Inflammation of the tendons from baseball, tennis and swimming. Pre-existing disposition including anatomical irregularity.
Rotator cuff symptoms
Popping or cracking sensation. Pain or weakness with overhead activities, such as reaching up or brushing hair. Pain in the shoulder, especially when lying on it.
Complications if untreated
The tendinitis can get worse as the bursa and the tendons become inflamed. Range of movement becomes restricted and tendon tears could cause chronic pain in some cases. Longer irritation can cause the production of bone spurs which lead to further irritation.
Rotator cuff treatment
Ice application. Anti-inflammatory diet and medication. Stop doing any activities causing injury pain. Then heat to improve blood circulation.
Rehabilitation and prevention
After healing and rest of the injured shoulder massage and sports massage therapy is beneficial for improving blood circulation and range of movement. Strengthening exercises for the muscles of the shoulder. Steroid injections are required to decrease inflammation and pain in some cases. Moderation of shoulder use. Proper recovery between sports activities and strength training will help prevent the injury.
Long-term prognosis
Given proper rest in addition to physical therapy and regular sports massage. Most athletes enjoy a fueled recovery from the injury. If a full tear of the rotator tissue happens, surgery may be needed. Recovery to preinjury levels of activity is often expected.
Rotator cuff treatment Watford – Sports massage Watford
Sports massage focuses on the muscles located around the shoulder region. The muscles consist of the subscapularis, teres minor, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus. There are many techniques commonly used during a shoulder massage including STR, MET, kneading, effleurage and skin rolling. A shoulder massage effectively reduces pain, stress, tension and tightness in the shoulder muscles. A sports massage increases the temperature of muscles to improve blood circulation. Our sports massage therapist at Lucas Massage Therapy uses sports massage in Watford to help reduce pain, tension and tightness of the muscles.
- re-establish the range of movement
- break up fascia adhesions or scar tissue
- release pain
- improve circulation
- prevention of injury
- improve posture