Understanding rotator cuff injuries is crucial for anyone active in sports or everyday activities. The rotator cuff, a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder joint, plays a vital role in a variety of movements. However, injuries to this complex structure can occur, leading to pain, dysfunction and a significant decline in quality of life.

Steven Struhl MD – AC Joint Separation delves into rotator cuff injuries, their symptoms and treatments and three therapeutic stretches to aid in recovery.

Understanding Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries often result from repetitive use, acute trauma or age-related degeneration. These injuries can manifest in different forms, including tendinitis, tears or impingement syndrome. The symptoms may vary depending on the severity of the injury but commonly include:

  • Pain: Often a dull ache in the shoulder, especially with overhead activities.
  • Weakness: Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm.
  • Limited Range of Motion: Stiffness in the shoulder joint.
  • Clicking or Popping Sounds: During shoulder movements.

Treatment Options

If you’re experiencing pain related to your rotator cuff, consulting a specialist is crucial. At our clinic, we utilize state-of-the-art technology, including the IntraVu Needlescope. This innovative tool allows us to pinpoint issues in real-time, providing immediate insights into your shoulder’s condition.

With precise assessments, we can tailor an effective treatment plan that may include:

  • Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises and therapeutic stretches are fundamental in the rehabilitation process.
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to alleviate pain and swelling.
  • Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief in some cases.
  • Surgery: In severe cases, minimally invasive arthroscopic repair may be necessary to restore function.

The December 2021 issue of the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine states, “Over the past 30 years, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) has evolved to become the gold standard in treating rotator cuff pathology. In fact, between 2004 and 2009, the percentage of rotator cuff repairs (RCRs) performed arthroscopically increased from 48.8% to 74.3%, whereas the percentage of open cases decreased from 51.2% to 25.7%.”

Three Therapeutic Stretches for Recovery

Recovery from a rotator cuff injury often involves consistent stretching and strengthening exercises. Here are three therapeutic stretches from our Instagram page you can perform to enhance your recovery:

1. Scaption

Stand up straight and take a single arm, positioning it 45 degrees from the frontal/side plane of your body. Slowly lift your arm straight up with the thumb facing upward to a 90-degree angle, and then return the arm to your body. Continue this up-and-down movement for 30 seconds.

This exercise targets the supraspinatus muscle, promoting mobility and strength in the shoulder.

2. Wall Slides

Stand facing a wall with your hand placed on it, thumb facing you. Gradually slide your hand up the wall as far as you can, slightly pressing your chest towards the wall during the upward movement. Slide your hand up and down for 30 seconds.

This stretch helps in improving shoulder mobility and flexibility, especially after an injury.

3. Internal Rotation with Towel

Sit comfortably on the ground. Roll up a medium-sized towel and hold one end with your dominant hand, bending your arm behind your head. With your other arm, reach behind your back, grasp the towel, and use your top hand to pull upward, feeling the stretch in the bottom shoulder. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds. If you’re flexible, you may simply use your hands without the towel.

This exercise enhances internal rotation strength and flexibility, critical for normal shoulder function.

Once you’ve completed all three exercises, repeat them two more times for a total of three sets. To avoid further injury, ensure you perform each movement gently and within a comfortable range.

Why Choose Dr. Steven Struhl?

When it comes to shoulder injuries, you want to trust a specialist with proven expertise. Dr. Steven Struhl is a top orthopedic surgeon and a recognized leader in shoulder surgery, renowned for his innovative techniques and minimally invasive treatment options.

His impressive background includes national and international recognition for his breakthrough AC joint surgery, which is well-regarded in orthopedic circles and holds a patent. With decades of experience in orthopedic and sports medicine, Dr. Struhl is equipped to handle even the most complex shoulder issues.

Shoulder joints contain four main joints, including the glenohumeral joint and the acromioclavicular (AC) joint. Understanding the intricacies of these joints is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment. When you visit Dr. Steven Struhl, you can rest assured that you’re receiving exceptional care tailored to your specific needs.

NYC Rotator Cuff Tear Symptoms and Treatment

If you’re experiencing rotator cuff pain, don’t let it hold you back from enjoying your daily activities. Our team is ready to provide you with the best solutions, including access to advanced diagnostic tools like the IntraVu Needlescope, ensuring you get on the path toward a healthy shoulder. By incorporating the suggested therapeutic stretches and seeking professional guidance, you can speed up your recovery and regain full function of your shoulder.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step in your journey to recovery!

Posted on behalf of Steven Struhl MD