The rotator cuff is the group of muscles and tendons that connects the humerus (upper arm bone) to the shoulder blade. They also help hold the ball of the humerus firmly in the shoulder socket. This ball-and-socket joint has the greatest range of motion in the body-- and is a common site for injury.
Different types of rotator cuff injuries include tendinitis, bursitis, and strains and tears of the tendons. They have many causes, including normal wear-and-tear, falls and other sudden traumas, lifting or pulling too-heavy loads, and repetitive stress. Injuries of the rotator cuff are common in athletes, especially those who constantly use overhead motion, such as baseball pitchers, tennis players, and volleyball players. They are also common for workers who consistantly carry large loads or reach up to file or shelve items.
Symptoms vary by the specific condition. Generally, there is pain and tenderness, especially when reaching up, pulling a load, or sleeping on the shoulder. Weakness and loss of motion are also symptoms.
Treatment usually includes rest, followed by a doctor-prescribed program of exercise to regain mobility and balance muscle strength. Steroids and/or surgery are sometimes used.
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