Rotator Cuff Injury Treatment

Rotator cuff injuries are among the most common shoulder problems affecting athletes and active individuals in Overland Park and throughout the Kansas City area. Whether you're lifting weights at Fit House KC, playing tennis at local courts, or engaging in overhead activities, rotator cuff injuries can significantly impact your ability to perform daily tasks and enjoy your favorite activities. At Move Muscle & Joint, we specialize in helping patients recover from rotator cuff injuries and restore full shoulder function.

The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their tendons that surround the shoulder joint: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles work together to stabilize the shoulder joint and control arm movements, particularly overhead motions. Rotator cuff injuries can range from mild inflammation (tendinitis) to partial or complete tears of the tendons. Injuries can occur from acute trauma such as falls or lifting heavy objects, or develop gradually from repetitive overhead activities and age-related degeneration.

Common symptoms of rotator cuff injuries include pain in the shoulder, especially with overhead activities or reaching behind the back, weakness when lifting or rotating the arm, difficulty sleeping on the affected shoulder, and a crackling sensation with certain movements. Pain often worsens at night and may radiate down the arm. Many patients experience a gradual onset of symptoms that progressively worsen over time, though acute tears can cause sudden, severe pain and immediate weakness.

Risk factors for rotator cuff injuries include repetitive overhead activities (painting, swimming, tennis, baseball), poor shoulder mechanics and posture, muscle imbalances between the rotator cuff and larger shoulder muscles, previous shoulder injuries, and age-related degeneration. Athletes involved in throwing sports, swimmers, and individuals with jobs requiring overhead work are particularly susceptible to these injuries.

At Move Muscle & Joint, we provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for rotator cuff injuries. Our approach includes thorough assessment of shoulder mechanics, scapular stability, and the entire upper quarter kinetic chain. We use evidence-based treatments including physical therapy, rehabilitation exercises, manual therapy, and advanced modalities like shockwave therapy to promote healing and restore function. For post-surgical patients, we offer specialized rehabilitation programs that optimize recovery.

We serve patients throughout Overland Park, Leawood, Prairie Village, Lenexa, Olathe, and surrounding communities, helping them overcome rotator cuff injuries and return to the activities they love. Whether you're dealing with a recent injury or chronic shoulder pain, our goal is to help you achieve lasting relief and prevent future problems.