Rotator Cuff Tears and Repairs

Rotator cuff injuries can range from strains and sprains to partial or complete tears. The rotator cuff consists of four key muscles that stabilize and move the shoulder joint. When injured, this area can cause significant discomfort, loss of function, and inflammation. Even in cases of complete tears where pain may be minimal, limited range of motion is a common issue. For partial tears or sprains, patients often experience sharp pain during movement and noticeable weakness.

Recent findings suggest that damage may not always be confined to the muscles; instead, nearby arteries, veins, or nerves might also be affected. Counterstrain therapy offers promising results for individuals recovering from rotator cuff injuries by addressing these multifaceted tissue restrictions.

A client who had recently undergone rotator cuff surgery approached me for support during her recovery. She had been engaging in physical therapy exercises as prescribed by her doctor but was still experiencing lingering pain and limited mobility. Upon evaluating her shoulder, I identified restrictions not only in the muscular tissue and surgical scar but also in the nerves and veins of her shoulder and arm

Using Counterstrain, I targeted and released the restrictions in the nerve, muscle, and vascular tissues. Counterstrain is a gentle, hands-on technique that allows me to alleviate tension in these tissues by positioning the body in ways that release dysfunction and restore balance.

Over the course of three sessions, the client experienced a dramatic acceleration in her recovery. By releasing nerve restrictions and improving blood flow in her shoulder and arm, her pain significantly decreased, and she regained greater mobility.

This case illustrates how Counterstrain can assist in the recovery from rotator cuff injuries by addressing not just the muscular damage but the full spectrum of tissue dysfunction. This holistic approach enables patients to experience faster healing and return to normal activity more effectively.

How Counterstrain Helps with Rotator Cuff Injuries:

Counterstrain therapy targets multiple aspects of tissue dysfunction following a rotator cuff injury, including:

• Nerve Health: Releasing restrictions in the nerves can restore proper function and reduce pain.
• Vascular Support: Addressing tension in veins and arteries improves circulation, which helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Muscle Recovery: Counterstrain helps alleviate muscle tightness, reduce scar tissue tension, and improve range of motion.

If you or someone you know is recovering from a rotator cuff injury or surgery, consider exploring Counterstrain therapy as a supportive, holistic approach to expedite recovery.