Rotator Cuff Injury (group 21) by Paulina Fresquez

Intro To RCI- (Rotator Cuff Injuries)

sdmarch1 — 2025-08-28 19:51:07 UTC

We chose to do our report on Rotator Cuff injuries

What is it?

kaleblgeneralpractition — 2025-08-28 19:57:08 UTC

Its an injury in the group of muscles that keeps your shoulder stable. It can cause a lose in range of motion and pain.

Age

afarn — 2025-08-28 19:57:38 UTC

People over the age of 40 are prone to rotator cuff injuries due to a combination of risk factors: They often encounter tendon degeneration, decreased blood flow, and bone spurs. As they get older, their chances only increase.

source:HSS

Lifestyles Most Likely to Suffer From an RCI

sdmarch1 — 2025-08-28 20:01:10 UTC

Certain lifestyle choices can put someone most at risk from an RCI. Certain habits like smoking nicotine can put a person severely at risk for the injury as smoking is reported to reduce oxygen and nutrients in the body which weakens the body's tendons and will slow the body's regeneration process, taking away it's ability to repair micro-tears that can lead to an RCI. (National Institutes of Health 2018).

Which gender is most likely to suffer from rotator cuff injury?

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-08-28 20:01:55 UTC

Women are most likely compared to men to suffer from this injury because women tend to have less upper body strength, which increases the risk of injuries especially during sports.

source: https://www.lispinemed.com/2021/12/24/which-gender-is-more-prone-to-sports-injuries/

Tendon degeneration

afarn — 2025-08-28 20:04:20 UTC

As people age, the prevalence of tendinopathy (tendon disorders) increases. These disorders often weaken then tendons which is a large risk factor in rotator cuff injuries.

Source:NIH

Falls

kaleblgeneralpractition — 2025-09-07 21:54:24 UTC

When working manual labor jobs, especially in warehouses, if you end up falling too hard it can cause a rotary cuff injury. This means that people who have less education or a felons have a higher likely hood of getting these injuries, because they are more likely to have blue-collar jobs such as construction or warehouse stacking.

Blue Collar

kaleblgeneralpractition — 2025-09-07 22:04:21 UTC

Blue collar workers work vary laborious jobs and they often have work accidents that cause RCI, such as falls.

One famous guy to have a RCI

kaleblgeneralpractition — 2025-09-07 22:09:38 UTC

Kobe Bryant in 2015 had torn his RC while playing one of his games. He had to get surgery, but recovered and continued to play ball.

Tendons

kaleblgeneralpractition — 2025-09-11 19:58:32 UTC

The tendon is responsible for the movement and stabilization of a rotary cuff. When rotary cuff is injured, it inhibits the ability for the tendon to do it's job. This happens in almost all cases of RCI.

Bones

sdmarch1 — 2025-09-11 19:59:33 UTC

Bones like the Humera, Scapula, and Clavicle come together to form the shoulder joint itself which is affected in a RCI.

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/rotator-cuff-tears/#:~:text=Most%20tears%20occur%20in%20the,tear%20in%20the%20supraspinatus%20tendon.

Cause: Tendonitis

kaleblgeneralpractition — 2025-09-11 20:02:24 UTC

Tendinitis it the medical term for when the tendons in your body become inflamed. It can cause problems in your shoulder, increasing wear and tear and therefore increasing the chance for an RCI

Bursae

afarn — 2025-09-11 20:03:32 UTC

One type of rotator cuff injury is shoulder bursitis. This is when the bone irritates the cusion (bursae) that sits in between the bones and connective tissue in your soulder.

Source:Cleveland Clinic

Sports

sdmarch1 — 2025-09-11 20:10:40 UTC

Repetitive use of the rotator cuff in sports that include throwing or quick moving of the tendons like swimming, throwing, or serving in sports like volleyball or tennis.

https://www.isppcenter.com/blog/which-sports-put-my-rotator-cuff-in-danger-and-how-can-i-protect-it#:~:text=Racquet%20sports%20一%20especially%20serving,to%20overuse%20of%20the%20shoulder.

Effects: Reduced range of motion

afarn — 2025-09-11 21:13:46 UTC

After rotator cuff injuries, people have troulble performing everyday tasks due to reduced rage of motion. For example, reaching for objects, puting clothes on, or brushing your hair can become painful after a rotator cuff injury.

The process that causes rotator cuff injury

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-09-11 21:29:31 UTC

Age is one of the processes of having an rotator cuff injury. The risk of a rotator cuff injury increases with age. Rotator cuff tears are most common in people older than 50. The risk increases mainly because of degenerative (wear-and-tear) processes.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rotator-cuff-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20350225

The primary physiological processes are involved in rotator cuff injuries

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-09-11 21:39:04 UTC

The primary physiological processes involved in rotator cuff injuries are related to the initiation of arm movements and the stabilization of the shoulder joint. their injuries can manifest as partial or full-thickness tears, which can be either acute or degenerative.

https://www.kenhub.com/en/library/anatomy/the-rotator-cuff

Irreparable Damage

sdmarch1 — 2025-09-18 19:49:43 UTC

A tear that goes untreated for too long can cause the tendon to completely deteriorate and cause surrounding muscle to atrophy and fill with fat. These changes complicate the chances of surgical repair.

Chronic Pain

afarn — 2025-09-18 19:50:12 UTC

Chronic pain is a common issue that can last for months, years, or even a lifetime. Chronic pain can stem from many issues ranging from tendinothapy (tendon degeneration), osteoarthritis (breakdown of cartilage), or even reoccurring tears.

Frozen shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis):

kaleblgeneralpractition — 2025-09-19 02:17:26 UTC

If you leave it alone, it can cause your shoulder lose all range of motion, essentially freezing in place. It can last up to 60 months, fading away in last 24 months. Also, you could be predisposed to this causing pain in the middle of the night, disrupting sleep and creating a sort of insomnia

Repeated Use

afarn — 2025-10-02 19:21:22 UTC

Repeated use of overhead motions or strenuous actions can cause a Rotator cuff injury. The more a person performs reaching motions, the more stress is put on the tendon.

Improper posture

afarn — 2025-10-02 19:26:27 UTC

Improper posture can cause wear on tendents. For example, slouching can cause a rotator cuff injury because it narrows the subacromial space. This can cause shoulder impingement syndrome which causes inflimation, irritation, and weakening of the tendon.

Rotator Cuff Physical Therapy

sdmarch1 — 2025-10-06 01:27:26 UTC

Physical Therapy for your rotator cuff or rehabilitation after an injury can cost from $520 to $2000 in the U.S. without insurance.

https://thervo.com/costs/physical-therapy-cost#:~:text=Physical%20therapy%20for%20rotator%20cuff,too%20quickly%20can%20aggravate%20inflammation.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

afarn — 2025-10-06 02:15:15 UTC

If there is residual pain after treatment, Patients may become annoyed or irritable. in order to combat emotions of anxiety, depression, or frustration relating to pain, cognitive behavioral therapy works to change negative thoughts or behaviors into healthy ones. A patient seeking help would look for a therapists or other related medical professionals.

Depression

sdmarch1 — 2025-10-06 02:25:51 UTC

With a RCI, brings a multitude functional limitations that can lead to depression. This disorder would then not only require physical, but cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Surgery

afarn — 2025-10-06 02:32:46 UTC

The expected cost of a rotator cuff injury is between $$8,400 to over $56,200. For a standard rotator cuff repair (arthroscopic or open), the likelihood is 4.5–5 out of 5 as long as the injury is not deemed pre-existing or degenerative. if the tear is not repaired, the injury will only get worse. this will lead to decreased range of motion, extreme pain, muscle degeneration, and even shoulder arthritis.

Persistent Shoulder Pain

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-06 03:04:31 UTC

A deep pain in the shoulder that worsen with movement especially laying on the affected side at night.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rotator-cuff-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20350225

Pain with lifting or reaching overhead

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-06 03:08:17 UTC

Pain when raising your arm above shoulder level, due to inflammation or the torn tendon rubbing against surrounding structures.

https://rocpdx.com/5-signs-that-youve-torn-your-rotator-cuff/

Shoulder Weakness

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-06 03:10:32 UTC

Noticeable weakness during overhead activities or when holding objects away from your body.

https://www.omgtb.com/what-does-a-rotator-cuff-tear-feel-like-6-warning-signs/

Clicking and Popping Noises

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-06 03:13:29 UTC

Repetitive clicking, popping, or grinding noises, especially when combined with pain, may indicate tendon irritation or mechanical catching within the shoulder joint.

https://www.omgtb.com/what-does-a-rotator-cuff-tear-feel-like-6-warning-signs/

Physical Examination

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-06 03:18:45 UTC

A thorough physical exam is the first step in diagnosing rotator cuff injuries. During this exam they will press on different parts of the shoulder to identify areas of pain or tenderness. Assess the range of motion by moving the arm into various positions. Test muscle strength around the shoulder and arms to evaluate functionality.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rotator-cuff-injury/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350231

Imaging Techniques

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-06 03:23:22 UTC

Imaging tests are crucial for confirming the diagnosis and assessing the extent of the injury. X-rays can reveal bone spurs or other issues that may contribute to shoulder pain. Ultrasound uses sound waves to visualize soft tissues, allowing for real-time assessment of the rotator cuff during movement. Magnetic Resonance Imaging provides detailed images of the shoulder's structures, including the rotator cuff, and is particularly useful for identifying tears and other soft tissue injuries.

https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2005/0415/p1587.html

Anti-inflammatory medications

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-06 03:25:57 UTC

Different oral medicines can be used to decrease your pain and swelling. They can include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Topical pain-relieving creams can also be used for temporary symptom relief. Costs typically range from $2 to $25 for items like cold compresses and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.

https://www.summahealth.org/flourish/entries/2023/07/torn-rotator-cuff-try-these-4-non-surgical-treatments-that-really-work

Open Surgery

afarn — 2025-10-06 03:52:52 UTC

in a rotator cuff tear, where the tendon is severed, a surgeon will make an incision above the shoulder to attempt to repair the tendon. A doctor does this by stitching the tendon back together with sutures or anchors and the incision is closed back up.

Arthriscope Surgery

afarn — 2025-10-06 05:49:43 UTC

This is a less invasive surgery performed with a Arthriscope, a small camera. If it is a partial tear, the area will be trimmed or smoothed, known as debridement. If it is a full tear, the process is the same as an open surgery.

Rehab is not needed

kaleblgeneralpractition — 2025-10-09 19:29:27 UTC

The ear is not the shoulder because the ear is the organ for hearing and balance located on the side of the head, while the shoulder is a joint connecting the arm to the torso, therefore hearing rehab is not required.
Speech is related to neurological injuries not Tendon degeneration.
Cognitive issues are related to Head trauma

PT or OT are necessary

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-22 22:50:00 UTC

Rotator cuff injuries can cause pain, weakness, and limited shoulder range of motion, which can make daily activities like lifting, reaching, dressing, or combing hair difficult.

1. Physical Therapy (PT): Exercises to restore shoulder strength and flexibility; treats pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. Delivered by a physical therapist.

2. Occupational Therapy (OT): Activities and training to improve daily tasks like dressing and reaching; treats difficulty with daily function. Delivered by an occupational therapist.

Isometric Exercises

afarn — 2025-10-28 00:36:37 UTC

Isometric exercises are designed to build muscle without moving the joint. Both physical therapists and occupational therapists educate their patients on isometric exercises, but occupational therapists will focus on exercises relating to the motions of everyday tasks. Isometric exercises will usually have a person's limb push against a stationary object. this way a person can build muscle without agitating the joint.

Activity Modification

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-30 21:29:40 UTC

Avoid repetitive overhead movements and heavy lifting that can strain the shoulder; focus on controlled, pain-free motions during daily tasks. 6/10 – It may be challenging to adjust if your job or hobbies involve frequent arm movement. A physical therapist or occupational therapist can teach safe movement techniques and help adapt daily activities.

Strengthening and Stretching Exercises

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-10-30 21:31:49 UTC

Regularly perform shoulder and upper back exercises to rebuild strength, improve flexibility, and prevent future injuries. 5/10 – Staying consistent with exercises can be hard but becomes easier with routine. A physical therapist can design a personalized program and ensure exercises are done safely and correctly.

Athletes

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-11-04 05:00:56 UTC

Why at risk: Repetitive overhead movements place extra stress on the rotator cuff, increasing the likelihood of tears or inflammation.
Challenges:
- Athletes may push through pain, which can worsen the injury.
- They may be pushed to recover quickly, which can create further complications.
- Early symptoms can be missed or misdiagnosed
- They may require special sports medicine rehab which is not widely available.

Older Adults (60+)

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-11-04 05:03:16 UTC

Why at risk: Aging naturally weakens tendons and muscles, making the rotator cuff more susceptible to tears even during normal daily activities.
Challenges: Older adults may delay seeking care because they assume pain is just part of aging. Risk of poor surgical outcomes increase due to age, and higher likelihood of comorbities slow recovery.

Strengthening Shoulder Muscles

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-11-12 21:30:31 UTC

How it helps: Builds stability and support for the rotator cuff to prevent tears.
Challenge: Staying consistent and using proper form can be difficult.

Warm-Up and Stretching

paulinafresquez03 — 2025-11-12 21:32:12 UTC

How it helps: Improves flexibility and blood flow, reducing strain risk.
Challenge: Often skipped due to time or lack of awareness.

Correct posture/form

afarn — 2025-11-13 17:15:54 UTC

In sports with repetitive motions its important to have the correct form when moving in order to decrease tendon degeneration.

Ex: In tennis, there are maxy repetative overhead motions. It is important to use your whole body and not just your arm in order to maintain strength in your tendon.

Wearable Sensors

sdmarch1 — 2025-11-20 19:56:05 UTC

Wearable sensors like accelerometers can measure an athletes shoulder acceleration, range of motion, or movement patterns during practice can help prevent an RCI before it occurs

Resistance Machines

sdmarch1 — 2025-11-20 20:03:46 UTC

Resistance machines have been developed such as the Humero Tech C1 which provides omnidirectional resistance when training and re-strengthening the rotator cuff. This technology is more effective and advanced than traditional methods such as simple dumbells or weights.

Ultrasound imaging

afarn — 2025-11-24 06:35:49 UTC

Doctors may use ultrasound imaging in order to scan your shoulder for an injury. An ultrasound uses sound waves to image any potentially inflamed or torn tendons. The accuracy of ultrasound imaging is highly dependent on the technicians skill. It is less expensive than an MRI, but is more prone to missing micro tears or deep tears.

Shoulder Braces

afarn — 2025-11-24 06:39:17 UTC

Shoulder braces can be used as a preventative measure in order to reduce strain on the shoulder. They can also be used to treat a rotator cuff injury by doing the same thing. They can weaken muscles overtime, so it is important not to rely on them. People should only use them long enough to heal, and should be removed once pain subsides.

OSHA training

afarn — 2025-12-05 17:26:37 UTC

One important safety measure is keeping the public educated about health movements and postures. In blue collar jobs, its important to require proper training of their workers so they avoid repetitive overhead motions and improper posture.

Fall-Prevention Initiatives for Older Adults

afarn — 2025-12-05 17:27:27 UTC

Another measure in education is focusing on the special populations like the elderly. We should implement initiatives that stress the importance of exercise and home safety inspections for older adults.