Athletes can suffer from a wide range of injuries, from strains and sprains to tendinitis and pulled muscles, but their joints are especially susceptible to problems. One of the most common injuries to occur, especially in athletes who perform frequent overhead motions, is a rotator cuff tear. The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder to provide movement and stability. The tendons from these muscles attach to the top of the humerus, and this is where most tears occur, although muscles are sometimes involved. At our office in San Rafael, CA, Dr. Kent Carlomagno treats a variety of pains and ailments, including sports injuries, like rotator cuff tears.
Rotator cuff tears can be caused by direct blows to the shoulder, by falling on the arm while it is outstretched and by having your arm yanked. Impingement (tendinitis), where the rotator cuff tendons rub against the shoulder blade, can also cause the rotator cuff to become inflamed, frayed and weakened.
People most susceptible to rotator cuff injuries include swimmers, tennis players, baseball players and other participants in activities that involve a lot of arm movement overhead. Your risk for injury is also higher if you are over the age of 40 since muscles and tendons lose elasticity as you age.
If you have torn your rotator cuff, you do not need to rely on steroid injections or surgery. With chiropractic care from Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center, you can be treated with holistic therapies to promote healing and reduce pain and inflammation.
To schedule an appointment, call (415) 721-7520. For more information, visit www.summitchiro.net.