Shoulder Injury

The shoulder is the most flexible and mobile joint in the body. The movement of the arm and shoulder is controlled by the rotator cuff muscles: the Subcapularis, Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, and Teres minor. These four muscles control the way the way the arm is internally and externally rotated, and the way it is lifted up and down.

Rotator Cuff Injury

Rotator cuff injuries are generally the result of excessive force, either from lifting something too heavy or from falling while your arm is in an awkward position. They can also be due to degeneration or general wear and tear.

Symptoms include pain and a reduced range of movement in the shoulder. Pain is not always associated with shoulder injury, so range of movement tests are generally the most reliable way of assessing rotator cuff injury. These simple tests include raising your arm above your head or extending it to the side. Generally, the greater the damage done to the tendons, the harder it will be to move your arm.

Prevention is the best medicine. Due to the unstable nature of the shoulder joint, a thorough stretching and strengthening program will reduce your chance of injury.

If you're recovering from a shoulder injury, call us on (03) 9387 0800 to find out how we can help.