Rotator Cuff Tendon Problems
What are Rotator Cuffs, and Why Are They Important?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and allowing a wide range of motion. These muscles include the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis.

Each of these muscles originates from the scapula (shoulder blade) and inserts into the humerus (upper arm bone). The tendons of these muscles form a cuff-like structure that covers the head of the humerus, helping to hold it securely within the shallow socket of the shoulder joint.
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The primary functions of the rotator cuff muscles include:
Shoulder Stabilization: The rotator cuff muscles work together to stabilize the shoulder joint, keeping the head of the humerus centered within the socket during movement. This stability is crucial for proper shoulder function, especially during activities that require overhead motion or lifting.
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Facilitating Shoulder Movements: The rotator cuff muscles are instrumental in facilitating various shoulder movements, such as arm raising and rotation. While larger muscles generate the power for these actions, the rotator cuff muscles provide stability and fine-tune the positioning of the humerus within the socket, ensuring smooth and coordinated motion during activities like reaching, lifting, throwing, and swinging.
Shoulder pain associated with rotator cuff issues can manifest in various ways, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain that limits shoulder mobility and function. Common causes of rotator cuff pain include:

Inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons, often due to repetitive overhead movements or overuse of the shoulder joint. Tendinitis can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the shoulder area, particularly during specific movements or activities.
Tears in the rotator cuff tendons can occur as a result of acute injury or degenerative changes over time. These tears may be partial or full-thickness and can lead to significant pain, weakness, and limited range of motion in the affected shoulder.
Impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa become compressed or pinched between the acromion (a bony prominence of the scapula) and the humeral head (upper arm bone). This can result in inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility, especially during overhead movements.
Rotator Cuff Bursitis:
Inflammation of the subacromial bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions and protects the rotator cuff tendons. Bursitis can cause localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the shoulder, particularly with repetitive motions or pressure on the joint.
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