The rotator cuff is responsible for allowing your shoulder to move in multiple directions. The rotator cuff is responsible for internally, externally, and abducting the shoulder on the humerus or major bone that forms the arm. These muscles play a major role in moving the entire complex of the shoulder.
A famous acronym in the medical world is SITS, which stands for the four muscles that make up the rotator cuff: supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis.
Due to the amount of movement capable at this joint in the body, injury does occur sometimes. Sprains and strains occur to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the arm. In order for the shoulder to move through normal range of motion, these structures need to stabilize and support the glenohumeral joint.
Rotator Cuff injuries most often occur from repetitive overhead movements in sports, in one?s jobs, or falling on an outstretched arm. Unfortunately, as we age, the risk to injure this muscle group increases. Other culprits that result in rotator cuff injuries are bone spurs, tendonitis, and impingement.
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