The rotator cuff is a grouping of four shoulder muscles (the supraspinatus, the teres minor, the infraspinatus, and the subscapularis). This muscular group surrounds the head of the humerus (the ball-shaped top of the arm bone) and helps to elevate and rotate your shoulder.
These muscles are also responsible for adding stability to the joint and ensuring that the humeral head stays centered in the socket (glenoid) portion of the joint.1
Occasionally, one (or more) of your rotator cuff muscles can either partially or completely tear. This can happen as a result of wear and tear over time or after a traumatic injury.1
Regardless, this issue can significantly impact the strength, stability, and movement of your arm. Because of this, a rotator cuff repair surgery may need to be performed.
This article will review this procedure and the physical therapy needed after the surgery to aid recovery, regain strength, and restore the full range of motion in your shoulder.
