Rotator Cuff

Serving the Greater Los Angeles County Area including La Verne, Claremont, Glendora, San Dimas, CA

Rotator cuff injuries can happen to anyone regardless of age. Anyone who has ever experienced injury to this part of the body knows how uncomfortable it can be. Think: swelling, pain, reduced range of mobility, and stiffness to the shoulder. Even mild cases can cause a fair share of discomfort and inconvenience.

While we can’t magically take all the pain away, our wellness services may help support your shoulder as part of your overall recovery routine. Our wellness services here at Recovery Lab may also help ease the aches and stiffness you feel in your shoulder.

Rotator Cuff

  • What is the Rotator Cuff?

You may be familiar with the general location of the rotator cuff, the shoulder. But what exactly is it? The rotator cuff refers to four specific muscles and tendons which encompass the shoulder joint.

The purpose of the rotator cuff is to assist with everyday shoulder movements. It also helps keep the shoulder joint stabile. When the rotator cuff is injured, shoulder movements may be painful and less smooth. It may also be harder to raise the arm and lift or carry objects.

  • What Causes Rotator Cuff Pain or Stiffness?

Rotator cuff pain and stiffness can come about for many different reasons. Some of the most common reasons is due to repetitive use at work or overuse from working out. Other reasons may involve poor posture, underlying conditions such as arthritis, or direct trauma to the area. Even aging can be to blame for rotator cuff issues.

  • How Can I Support My Shoulder?

For rotator cuff injuries, RICE is recommended. This stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

Resting involves avoiding activities or movements, like lifting heavy objects, which could make the injury worse. To help temporarily numb the pain and bring down inflammation, it’s recommended to add ice to the area 20 minutes a few times throughout the day.

For the compression part of RICE, be sure to keep your shoulder well-supported with a sling. Lastly, keep your arm of the affected shoulder elevated when possible to help bring down swelling.

  • Can Wellness Services Support my Rotator Cuff Injury?

Wellness services may help support your shoulder as part of your recovery routine! At Recovery Lab, we have several wellness services that may be a good fit.

Localized cryotherapy is a great service to consider for rotator cuff-related soreness and inflammation. The cold air expelled from this device may help provide temporary relief and support your body’s natural recovery.

Red light therapy is another exceptional recovery tool to think about. The wavelengths emitted during a red light therapy session may support cellular function, which may support your body’s natural recovery process. It’s also a non-invasive option that may help ease inflammation.

As your shoulder begins to feel better, we recommend our mobility stretching service, also known as assisted stretching. One of our Recovery Specialists will help gently guide your stretches to support your flexibility and range of motion. With better mobility, you may experience less stiffness in the affected area, which may help ease discomfort.

  • Do I Need a Diagnosis Before Booking a Wellness Service?

No, you do not need a diagnosis for your rotator cuff injury before scheduling one of our wellness services. We accept anyone – no doctor referral needed! However, our services do not replace standard medical treatment. These services can, however, be part of your overall recovery journey.

You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your decision. When in doubt, always speak to your medical care provider first before booking one of our recovery services.