Rotator Cuff Syndrome / Tendinitis (Part One)

One of the most common physical complaints is shoulder pain. The shoulder is composed of several joints combined with tendons and muscles that allow a wide range of motion in your arm. Because the shoulder has so many different structures, it is vulnerable to various problems. The Rotator Cuff is a frequent source of shoulder pain.

Normal anatomy of the shoulder

Anatomy

The shoulder is comprised of three bones: the upper arm bone (humerus), shoulder blade (scapula), and collarbone (clavicle).

Your arm is held in the shoulder socket by the Rotator Cuff. The muscles and tendons form a cover, a cap over the head of the humerus and are attached to the shoulder blade (scapula).

There is a lubricating sac called the Bursa between the Rotator Cuff and the bone on top of your shoulders (acromion). The Bursa allows the Rotator Cuff tendons to glide freely when you move your arm.

The acromion rubs, irritates the rotator cuff and the bursa.

Description

The Rotator Cuff is the most common source of shoulder pain. The pain may result from:

• Tendinitis. Irritation of the tendons of the rotator cuff.
• Bursitis. The Bursa can become inflamed and swell, filling with fluid and causing pain.
• Impingement. When you raise your arm up high, the space between the acromion and the rotator cuff narrows. The acromion rubs against the tendons and the bursa, causing irritation and pain.

Causes

Pain from the rotator cuff is common in young athletes and middle-aged people. Young athletes who use their arms for swimming, basketball, and tennis are especially vulnerable. Those who do repeated lifting of the arm to hang something, painting etc. The pain can also come from minor trauma.