Shoulder injuries may occur suddenly and be associated with a specific injury such as a fall or it may be something that becomes progressively worse over time and is aggravated by activity to the muscle.  

Rotator cuff injuries often occur as a result of micro-trauma caused by repetitive movement in sporting activities. The rotator cuff muscles are put under a great deal of strain during racquet sports and other activities where the arm is frequently above the head.

Signs of Potential Concern: 

• Pain during racquet sports and activities involving throwing.
• Pain when bending the arm & rotating it outwards against resistance.
• Pain on the outside of the shoulder and at times radiating down the arm.
• Shoulder pain that worsens at night.
• Stiffness in the shoulder joint.

The following factors may increase your risk of having a rotator cuff injury:

• Age – as you get older, your risk of suffering a rotator cuff injury increases. Rotator cuff tears are most common in people over 40.

•  Being an athlete – athletes who regularly use repetitive motions, such as racket ball players, baseball pitchers, etc. are at greater risk of having a rotator cuff injury.

• Working in construction– carpenters and painters, who also use repetitive motions, have an increased risk of injury.

• Poor posture – poor posture can allow a muscle or tendon to become pinched under your shoulder bones. 

• Weak shoulder muscles  – this factor can be decreased or eliminated with shoulder-strengthening exercises.