You might have a rotator cuff tear… and you don’t even know it! You could have a rotator cuff tear without even realizing it! Today, let’s explore how this happens, why you might not always feel it, and most importantly, what to do before it becomes a real issue. No need to panic, I’ll explain everything, and we’ll clarify the situation before you worry for nothing.
How does it work ?
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint, allowing for a wide range of movements while ensuring stability. It includes:
• Supraspinatus: it raises the arm to the side.
• Infraspinatus and Teres Minor: they allow for external rotation of the arm.
• Subscapularis: located at the front of the scapula, it rotates the arm inward.
Tears: Visible or Not?
It’s important to know that rotator cuff tears can be present without causing symptoms. In clinic, we often discover asymptomatic tears during imaging exams, sometimes revealing degenerative tears in patients without any shoulder pain.
This might surprise you, but shoulder pain without visible abnormalities on imaging is often linked to nociceptive mechanisms, meaning heightened sensitivity in the shoulder structures without any underlying damage. If you’re curious about this, feel free to ask for more information in the comments!
How to Prevent It From Getting Worse?
Prevention comes down to two main approaches:
1. Vary tasks and use appropriate equipment: In manual labor, it’s crucial not to overwork the same joints by repeating the same motions all day.
2. Muscle strengthening: There’s nothing better than strengthening to stabilize the shoulder and prevent injuries. One effective exercise to try is the clock exercise with weight. It engages all ranges of motion in the shoulder while reinforcing it.
Conclusion
Whether symptomatic or not, rotator cuff tears deserve close attention. To prevent injuries or treat them effectively, vary your movements, strengthen your muscles, and consult a professional if you experience persistent pain. Don’t hesitate to consult your chiropractor for advice tailored to your situation.
And above all, don’t forget to subscribe to the official Dr. Boisvert, chiropractor's YouTube channel! We publish educational videos every week to help you stay informed and take control of your health.
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