What is the Rotator Cuff?

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that work together to provide stability and movement to your shoulder joint. Often referred to as the SITS muscles, they are:

• Supraspinatus: Helps lift your arm away from your body (abduction).

• Infraspinatus: Rotates your arm outward (external rotation).

• Teres minor: Also assists with external rotation.

• Subscapularis: Rotates your arm inward (internal rotation).

Your shoulder joint as a ball and socket. The rotator cuff covers the head of your upper arm bone (humerus), keeping it securely in place within the socket (shoulder blade). This allows for a wide range of motion while preventing the shoulder from dislocating.

Photo from https://my.clevelandclinic.org

Common Signs of Rotator Cuff Injury

Do you experience shoulder pain, especially when lifting your arm overhead? This could be a sign of a rotator cuff tear.

Symptoms

• Pain: A dull ache at rest that worsens with movement, particularly overhead activities.

• Weakness: Difficulty lifting your arm or performing daily tasks.

• Limited range of motion: Inability to fully move your shoulder.

• Night pain: Discomfort while sleeping on the affected side.

  
  

Causes

Rotator cuff tears can occur due to:

• Acute injuries: Sudden, forceful movements, such as those involved in sports like tennis or weightlifting.

• Overuse injuries: Repetitive overhead motions can gradually damage the rotator cuff.

• Degenerative changes: Age-related wear and tear on the tendons can lead to tears.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. While the symptoms described above are common, other shoulder conditions may present similar signs.

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