The rotator cuff is a group of muscles that help hold the shoulder in place. Rotator cuff tendinitis typically is caused by the tendon of the supraspinatus, which is one of the rotator cuff muscles, becoming inflamed.
Purpose
Rotator cuff tendinitis is often the result of overuse of the shoulder joint or from improper mechanics when performing an activity that involves the shoulder, CyberPT explains. Physical therapy will help strengthen the rotator cuff muscles to help maintain strength and range of motion as the injury heals. Physical therapy can also help prevent future tendinitis and can speed healing.
Programs
Physical therapy for rotator cuff tendinitis will often involve the patient making regular visits to a physical therapist, in addition to performing stretching or strengthening exercises at home, the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine explains. Alternatively, patients can elect to perform exercises under their own supervision.
Effects
Physical therapy is able to help a shoulder injury heal approximately 70 percent of the time, the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine notes. Another advantage of physical therapy is that the patient will often feel the benefits after just a few sessions.
