How Do You Recover From A Rotator Cuff Injury?
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help to support the shoulder during any kind of rotating movement. Sudden trauma to the shoulder from a sports injury, overuse and repetitive movement of the shoulder can cause small tears in the tendons that connect the muscles to the bone. This may result in soreness, swelling and pain. With the right approach, recovery is possible. Stop activities such as reaching, lifting or repetitive motion with the first signs of having a shoulder injury. Wear a sling or shoulder immobilizer to help rest the shoulder. With an ice pack, ice the shoulder two or three times each day for 15 to 20 minutes each time. This will help to reduce any swelling. Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication for the pain. Use heat therapy after two days of rest, ice and taking pain medication. Alternate your ice treatments with heat, by using a heating pad. This will draw blood to the area and promote healing and keep the joint from becoming stiff.