Rotator Cuff Disorders: Other Treatment

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Other Treatment

Physical therapy and rehabilitation for rotator cuff disorders focus on improving range of motion and gradually building muscle strength. Physical therapy may be used alone to manage rotator cuff disorders or as part of recovery after surgery.

Experts are studying a new treatment for chronic calcifying tendinitis of the rotator cuff. The treatment uses ultrasound to create shock waves that destroy calcium deposits in the rotator cuff tendons. Good results were reported, with pain relief and increased range of motion, but further studies are needed to see whether these results can be duplicated and to measure long-term results.³

Other Treatment Choices

Physical therapy can reduce pain in the soft tissues (such as the muscles, ligaments, and tendons), improve function, and build muscle strength. A physical rehabilitation program should be developed by a health professional, a physical therapist, or an athletic trainer. Exercises for rotator cuff disorders include:

• Gentle stretching exercises. These are often the most important part of physical therapy for rotator cuff disorders, especially when stiffness is a major symptom. Stretching includes range-of-motion exercises.
• Strengthening exercises. Generally, you will not start these exercises until your rotator cuff has healed and is able to perform the stretching and range-of-motion exercises comfortably. Strengthening exercises can help build and maintain shoulder function and stability.

Rotator cuff problems: Exercises you can do at home (with your health professional's approval)

Some physical therapists may use other techniques to relieve pain and reduce muscle spasms, such as massage or ultrasound therapy.

What To Think About

Although completing a rehab program may be difficult, a successful outcome after surgery depends on your commitment to treatment. If you follow your physical therapy plan closely and get help when you need it, you are more likely to restore shoulder strength and movement.

Common difficulties with rehab programs include:

• Impatience during the long periods of rest needed to let your shoulder heal. Athletes and people whose jobs depend upon the use of their arms may find it hard to be patient with this aspect of treatment.
• Not performing exercises as often as prescribed.
• Using incorrect technique when doing exercises.

Last updated:	February 08, 2008
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedics
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC