Your rotator cuff is composed of the muscles and tendons surrounding your shoulder joint. Sometimes, the rotator cuff can become torn or injured, due to repetitive overhead motions performed in sports (such as tennis) or jobs (such as carpentry.) Those who experience rotator cuff injuries or “torn shoulders” generally report a dull ache deep in their shoulder, arm weakness, difficulty reaching behind their back, and disturbed sleep due to pain. At Key Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre, our natural and non-invasive methods can help relieve your shoulder pain and heal your rotator cuff injury.
What is a rotator cuff injury?
While rotator cuff injuries sometimes require surgery if they are severe enough, there are several cases where physiotherapy treatments can work just as well (if not better) than surgery. According to the American Physiotherapy Association, “A recent study from Finland asserts that when it comes to treatment of nontraumatic rotator cuff tears, physiotherapy alone produces results equal to those produced by arthroscopic surgery and open surgical repair.” In this same study, a follow-up on 167 patients receiving physiotherapy alone for their rotator cuff injuries, demonstrated that conservative treatment, such as physiotherapy, should be considered as the primary treatment for this condition.
What to expect during rotator cuff physiotherapy:
At Key Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre, we will conduct a physical evaluation and diagnostic tests to determine if you do indeed have a rotator cuff tear, and we will design a personalized treatment plan based on the needs of your diagnosis. Specialized techniques, such as ice and heat therapies, manual therapies, or ultrasound may be used to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and enhance function. Gentle stretches and exercises may also be prescribed to improve your posture and the range of motion of your shoulder.
Get started today!
If you are suffering from a rotator cuff injury, contact us today. Our dedicated Halifax, NS physiotherapists will provide you with some much-needed relief and get you started on your path toward recovery!