Rotator Cuff Tear Rehab and Why It Is Essential

Rotator cuff tear rehab is the most significant aspect to recuperating from a tear in the cuff. Started early and approached with dedication, it is the safest and most effective method to treat the vast majority of tears.

Any rotator cuff rehab should follow prescribed rotator cuff rehabilitation programs. This will significantly increase the chances of a first-rate recovery.

One of the chief reasons why countless people have to undergo costly and painful surgery is by simply not doing any rehab. The bulk of cuff tears can be treated easily by rehabilitation.

Surgery, should, for the vast majority, be a last resort. The exception is for the severest of injuries.

What is the point of rehab?

Rehab is not undertaken to heal the cuff tendons. Rehabilitation programs are consistently recommended as an initial treatment for a tear. The point of any rehabilitation is to improve the function of the muscles that surround the shoulder.

The majority of people achieve pain relief and increase strength and mobility in the shoulder through rehabilitation. It can be hard to grasp the notion that the tear does not have to heal for pain to be reduced.

However, the fact is that the bulk of those with a tear will not need surgical intervention. What we are trying to do with rotator cuff tear rehab is to relieve the symptoms not necessarily heal the tear.

What to expect immediately after a cuff tear

If you have suffered cuff damage; have it assessed without delay. Any acute or freshly occurred injury requires swift attention.

A doctor should be able to diagnose that the cuff is torn, a first-rate doctor will be capable of specifying the particular tendon affected. The original diagnosis can then be verified using an mri or ultrasound scan.

So you have a verified tear - what should you do?

* R.I.C.E. - Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation
* Heat - after a few days and regular icing try the application of heat, this can soothe any pain.
* Pain killers - Take some prescribed pain relief, it will help.
* Cortisone - Probably not offered immediately but will ease symptoms if prescribed.
* Physical therapy - Start as soon as possible. Early involvement will diminish inflammation, scarring and prevent the tear becoming worse.

A Physical Therapist will demonstrate the best exercises for rotator cuff injury. They should design a program that starts slowly, with passive motion exercises, those in which the shoulder is supported and under no strain. From this point the program gradually builds in intensity. Ultimately it will end with a selection of strengthening exercises. You should also be shown a selection of rotator cuff stretches to build into the work you do.