Rotator cuff

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles in the shoulder that move and stabilise the shoulder joint.

The rotator cuff group consists of four muscles:

• Musculus supraspinatus.
• Musculus infraspinatus.
• em>Musculus subscapularis.
• Musculus teres minor.

Function of the rotator cuff

Besides moving the shoulder, the rotator cuff has another important function: stabilisation of the shoulder joint. By maintaining tension on the shoulder capsule, the rotator cuff ensures that the humeral head is less likely to dislocate (luxate). This is especially important during arm movements above shoulder height.

What can go wrong?

The muscles of the rotator cuff must work well together. When this cooperation is disrupted by, for example, a fall, overuse, or other injury, the humeral head will be stabilised less effectively. This results in overuse of the rotator cuff, which can lead to subacromial pain syndrome. In more severe cases, tears can even occur in the tendons of the rotator cuff. Rotator cuff injury can cause a pattern of shoulder pain, loss of strength, pain during movements above shoulder height, and pain when lying on the affected shoulder. Older people often have rotator cuff tendon tears without experiencing symptoms.

Treatment of rotator cuff complaints

Rotator cuff injuries can generally be treated effectively. Initially, a physiotherapeutic approach will almost always be chosen. Through specific exercise therapy, the muscles are trained to restore stability in the shoulder. If there is a severe tear that heals poorly or not at all, surgery may be considered. Contact a physiotherapist near you to have your complaints assessed.