What Does the rotator Cuff Do?

Shoulder+Anatomy+and+rotator+cuff

What Does the rotator cuff Do?

During arm movements, the rotator cuff contracts and prevents the sliding of the head of the humerus, allowing full range of motion, and providing overall joint stability. The rotator cuff also helps in the mobility of the shoulder joint by facilitating abduction (lifting arm to the side), medial or internal rotation (toward the belly), and lateral or external rotation (to the outside).

The rotator cuff in it’s most fundamental framework is for lifting the arm and rotating it towards the body and away from the body. If you are suffering from a possible tendinitis or tear then on the more extreme range it is felt in many or all daily activities.

Moderate or Severe Tears May feel symptoms when:

  • Walking

  • Sleeping

  • Lifting Groceries

  • Closing your Car door

  • Tucking in your shirt

  • Putting on a bra

  • Typing

  • Driving

  • Getting up from a chair

Small Tears may feel symptoms in the following:

  • Throwing a baseball

  • Serving a tennis ball

  • Overhead work for long periods in the house

  • Vacuuming

  • Swimming

  • Weights: Burpees / Push-Ups / Med Ball Throws / Bench Press / Flys / Curls / Side Arm Raises

  • CrossFit Overhead Movements

  • Slowly lowering a weight

  • Yoga: Downward Dog / Child’s Pose / Chaturanga /

There are many more dynamic movements the the cuff does for work requirements including but not limited to overhead reaching, painting, mechanical work, carrying heavy items, supporting body weight, opening / closing doors, driving, and even pushing a mouse. A modification if possible by your therapist to improve the ergonomics of your work environment and or home office is critical.



More Shoulder Articles & FAQs

  • What Exercises Are Bad for the Rotator Cuff?


Related Webinars



Related Blog Articles



References:

  • Orthopedic Physical Assessment, 4th Edition. David J. Magee, 2006. www.emedicine.medscape.com/article/93095-overview

  • Kim TK, et al. "Clinical features of the different types of SLAP lesions" Journal of Bone Joint Surgery Am. 2003 Jan;85-A(1):66-71. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1261463-overview

  • Mayo Clinic: Rotator Cuff; https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rotator-cuff-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20350225

  • WebMD: Rotator Cuff; https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/qa/what-causes-rotator-cuff-problems


Caution.gif

Disclaimer:
This website is an information and education resource for health professionals and individuals with injuries. It is not intended to be a service for patients and should not be regarded as a source of medical or diagnostic determination, or used as a substitute for professional medical instruction or advice. Not all conditions and treatment modalities are described on this website. Any liability (in negligence or otherwise) arising from any third party acting, or refraining from acting, on any information contained on this website is hereby excluded.