The rotator cuff is a series of 4 muscles that connect to the bone and help stabilize the shoulder. Injuries occur due to stress and overworking of these muscles. When this happens, tendons develop small tears, which cause pain and inflammation, which is why the injury is often treated with an anti-inflammatory.
Physical therapy exercises that target the rotator cuff muscles with not only help with present injuries, but also help prevent injuries. The ball of the shoulder must remain centered, if not, then undue stress is placed on the rotator cuff muscles. The physical therapy exercises help strengthen those muscles so the ball of the shoulder can stay centered. The amount of time it takes to heal varies on the person, so starting an exercise program to soon could result in further injury.
Muscles sometimes weaken overtime from not using them, or as a natural part of the aging process which is why strengthening these muscles is an important part of the rehabilitation process for torn rotator cuff muscles. By following a set exercise and stretching schedule you could be pain free in as little as 6 weeks. It usually takes that long for the muscles to gain enough strength so that you don’t feel the pain. Keep in mind though, you will want to continue working those muscles after the pain is gone to prevent future injuries.
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