Rotator Cuff

Signs or Symptoms

Range from an ache to severe pain on moving the arm into a specific position.

Description

The rotator cuff is four muscles that support and move the upper arm bone. Injury to any one of these muscles causes pain, ache, weakness and limited range of motion in the shoulder

Causes

Trauma or repeated abuse.

Standard treatment

Injections, anti-inflammatories, stretching and strengthening exercises. Surgery is done in chronic or severe injuries.

AK Approach

The muscles that support the arm in its muscular socket are evaluated to find the ones that are malfunctioning. These are corrected and then tested for the need of corrective exercises. The attention is then shifted to the localized structures that are injured and failing to support the shoulder joint properly like the clavicle and the scapula. These can include specialized treatments for ligaments, muscles, skin and joints. Finally, attention is directed to corrective procedures that can help coordinate the muscles to help prevent future injuries. Nutritional therapies aimed at increasing factors that would speed healing and reduce any inflammation are considered.

Other lifestyle modifications are used to prevent or minimize exacerbating the condition. A specific program for your needs is created.