subject: Rotator Cuff Disease - Why Do Some People Develop This Condition? [print this page] Author: Peter Harris Author: Peter Harris
Rotator cuff disease is the same as rotator cuff pain, impingement syndrome, or rotator cuff tendonitis. It a general term used to describe a condition that involves pain in the shoulder. Many people will develop problems with their shoulders and the reasons for this are many. This article will discuss why some people are more prone to shoulder pain as well as other important aspects of this condition.
The most common cause of nontraumatic shoulder pain is due to the shape and thickness of one of the bones in the shoulder. It is called the acromion process. This bone forms a "roof" over the rotator cuff muscles. There is very little space between these two structures normally. If the acromion is abnormally shaped or too large it will cause this space to be even smaller. This problem will cause the rotator cuff muscles to be "pinched" when the arm is elevated. Now, if someone has this problem with their acromion and they are involved in a job or sport that requires repetitive arm elevation they will be predisposed to developing pain because of the impingement that is occurring.
Muscle imbalances around the shoulder joint can also predispose a person to rotator cuff disease. This means that certain muscles are too weak and overpowered by stronger ones. This will cause the shoulder joint to move abnormally during movement which can cause impingement. The more this happens the more the structures become irritated until finally they become inflamed and painful.
Repetitive overhead activities can also cause damage and lead to rotator cuff tendonitis and pain. Athletes involved in overhead sports like swimming, tennis or baseball are exposed to forces that can cause impingement or overstretching of certain rotator cuff muscles. Over time these muscles will eventually break down and become inflamed. If the problem persists the muscle can eventually tear causing more severe symptoms and weakness. The same process can occur in people involved in jobs where their arms are overhead alot.
Rotator cuff disease can be a painful and debilitating condition. Some people are predisposed to this problem simply because of their anatomy. Others have occupations or sport activities that may accelerate the process. The important point to remember is that if you develop any degree of pain in the shoulder that doesn't resolve within a week or so you should have it checked out and treated by your physician.About the Author:
A painful shoulder caused by rotator cuff disease can persist for years. With the right education you can get the shoulder pain relief that you deserve! To discover a safe and effective system that will reduce and eliminate your shoulder joint pain you have to see the information on the next page...Click here now: Rotator Cuff Pain
Peter Harris is a licensed physical therapist that specializes in musculoskeletal and orthopedic afflictions. He has helped thousands of patients relieve their painful symtpoms and resume a normal lifestyle over his 18 year career.
