The Rotator Cuff is a common name for the group of 4 distinct muscles and their tendons, which provide strength and stability to the shoulder complex. These muscles are the Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres Minor and Subscapularis, also referred to as the SITS muscles. The muscles arise from the scapula and connect to the head of the humerus, forming a cuff around the glenohumeral joint.
As a group, the rotator cuff muscles are responsible for stabilising the shoulder joint, by providing the "fine tuning" movements of the head of the humerus within the glenoid fossa.
Rotator Cuff injury’s, pain or discomfort are often caused by a weakness in some of the larger muscle surrounding the shoulder, when these larger muscle are not ‘pulling their weight’ in moving the shoulder or scapular joints then the smaller rotator cuff muscles attempt to ‘pick up the slack.’ Rest is a key recovery tool in any Rotator Cuff injury and sports massage can be extremely beneficial. Consider strengthening larger back and shoulder muscles groups to ensure you avoid any Rotator Cuff injuries.
Stretches for the Rotator Cuff
Doorway Stretch
Grip the sides of the doorway with each hand at or below shoulder height, and lean forward through the doorway until you feel a light stretch.
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