The rotator cuff muscle complex is made up of four different muscles that work together to stabilise the humeral head in the shoulder socket. These muscles do more than just that though, as they work together to move and support the shoulder through function. Injury can occur to either of the rotator cuff muscles, which at times can have an effect on particular muscle movements. The four muscles are known as the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis.

Rotator cuff injury can come in the form of a muscle tear/strain or be the result of a tendinopathy. Pathology to the rotator cuff is very common among the population, even in those who do not have any shoulder pain or functional limitations. The rotator cuff complex is involved in about 80% of all shoulder pain presentations! Due to the high involvement of the rotator cuffs and the intricacies of shoulder pain, mechanical shoulder pain that is not due to osteoarthritis, frozen shoulder, instability or a sinister cause is referred to as Rotator cuff related shoulder pain. Another interchangeable name is subacromial shoulder pain.

Definition of Rotator cuff related shoulder pain

“Rotator cuff related shoulder pain (RCRSP) is an over-arching term that encompasses a spectrum of shoulder conditions including; subacromial pain (impingement) syndrome, rotator cuff tendinopathy, and symptomatic partial and full thickness rotator cuff tears” - Lewis, 2016.

Director and osteopath Jackson has completed further education in this area from arguably the worlds leading expert on shoulder pain presentations. Rotator cuff related shoulder pain is one of the most frequent complaints he manages at the clinic due to his knowledge in this area.

The primary cause of having a rotator cuff tear increases with age, however many are asymptomatic. For every decade after our 50s the prevalence of having a rotator cuff tear increases. This risk factor is unmodifiable however, establishing improved load capacity and confidence in the shoulder is essential. By doing this we are modifying variables that can improve strength, function, pain and confidence.

Shoulder pain is very complex and highly multifactorial, which is why a holistic management strategy is key. At The Reform Lab Osteopathy we rehabilitate our patients inside the elite gym Project Reform, ensuring your management has the best evidenced based care.

Ensure you read our informative blogs with scientific modern research, ‘Tendon Reaction Injuries’ and ‘Pain and Exercise - Is it safe and Beneficial?’