Rotator Cuff

Question 1

What are the functions of the rotator cuff muscles?

Answer 1

Stabilises humeral head in the glenoid

Physiological movement of the shoulder

Question 2

What is included in Rotator Cuff Related Shoulder Pain (RCRSP)?

Answer 2

Sub-acromial pain syndrome (impingement)
Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Rotator Cuff tears
Bursitis 
Long head of the bicep

Question 3

What are the theories of cause of RC tendinopathy?

Answer 3

Tendon compression (extrinsic/intrinsically)
Tendon overuse/underuse
Nutrition
Genetics
Greater tubercle or glenoid - inferior or internal damage

Question 4

What are signs of RC injuries?

Answer 4

Shoulder pain
Impairment of shoulder movement and function - shoulder elevation, lat rotation
Excessive/ mal-adapted load - major influence
Altered scapular movement

Question 5

What can be used as management for RC injuries?

Answer 5

Surgery
Exercise
Education
Load modification (stretching, strengthening, education on daily postures and movements to help increase load)