The rotator cuff is a network of muscles and tendons that supports the shoulder joints during rotational movements. Professional and recreational athletes and weight lifters are susceptible to rotator cuff injuries. These may include chronic tears resulting from overuse or misuse, or acute tears, which typically come from a fall or a blow to the area. Treatments may involve surgery, rehabilitation exercise or both.
Considerations
When debating whether to have rotator cuff surgery or perform therapeutic exercise, consider the benefits and limitations of the latter. Specialists at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explain that 50 percent of rotator cuff injury patients benefit from nonsurgical interventions and rehabilitation exercises. Patients suffering from pain, but not significant shoulder weakness, are the best candidates for exercise therapy. Those with symptoms lasting longer than six months and those with tears larger than 3 cm are less likely to benefit from rotator cuff exercise.
Benefits
Rotator exercise benefits athletes and non-athletes in numerous ways. As a proactive approach, rotator cuff exercise prevents injury by providing shoulder joint stability. This stability may also improve posture, because it prevents the shoulders from slouching. Rotator cuff exercise improves shoulder range of motion, making it easier to perform sports and daily activities.
Time Frame
Physical therapists at the Stone Clinic advise patients to reduce inflammation, via anti-inflammatory agents, when they begin performing rotator cuff rehabilitation exercise. They explain that this causes the cells to lay down collagen in an organized, functional manner. Their program begins with passive range of motion exercises, which prevent adhesion in the injured area, and gradually adds more aggressive stretching and strengthening exercises. The Stone Clinic uses bands in the early rehabilitation
Features
Bands, wands, cables and light weights are used for rotator cuff exercises. The Stone Clinic uses bands in the early stages of rehabilitation exercises, and gradually progresses to wands, weight and cable equipment.
Types
Different props are used for different types of rotator cuff rehabilitation exercise. Resistance bands are best for shoulder rotation exercise. Attach the band to stable point, holding the other end with one hand. Secure your elbow against waist, and rotate your forearm against the band's resistance. The same type of exercises can be performed with light weights. The wand is a lightweight device that resembles a broomstick. The wand facilitates shoulder flexion and extension exercises. For flexion, stand upright and hold the wand with both hands, keeping your palms facing down. Keep your arms straight as you raise your arms overhead. For extension. bring the wand behind your back, move it way from your body, hold for five seconds, and then return to the starting position. Cable equipment exercises enable rowing movements. Sit upright, holding the cable attachment with both hands. Squeeze your shoulder blades toward each other as you bend your elbows. Perform three sets of 10 repetitions of each exercise.
Member Comments