Understanding Rotator Cuff Injuries
Shoulder
Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.
The rotator cuff is a powerful team of muscles and connecting tendons. These muscles and tendons attach your upper arm to your shoulder blade. Your rotator cuff helps you reach, throw, push, pull, and lift. Without it, your shoulder would be nearly useless.
A Healthy Rotator Cuff
A healthy rotator cuff gives your shoulder flexibility, and control. The muscles and tendons of the rotator cuff hold your upper arm bone (humerus) in your shoulder socket (glenoid). Your rotator cuff also assists the large muscle covering your shoulder (deltoid muscle) with movements.
A Damaged Rotator Cuff
Pain told you that something was wrong with your shoulder. Now that you know it’s a rotator cuff problem, you may wonder what caused it. Rotator cuff tendons can become damaged or inflamed (tendinitis) in many ways. These include irritation (overuse), pinching (impingement), calcium deposits (calcification), and splitting (tears). Any of these conditions can make your shoulder weak, tender, and painful.
Making Your Shoulder Healthy Again