The shoulder joint is among the most mobile in the body. The arm bone (humerus) is held against the shoulder blade (scapula) by 4 large tendons and their muscles. These four tendons which surround the humeral head and attach it to the scapula comprise the rotator cuff. These tendons can be injured or torn through trauma or repetitive activities. Not everyone with a rotator cuff will experience symptoms, but many will. These symptoms include pain in the shoulder which will sometimes radiate down the arm, as well as weakness. Small tears can usually be treated conservatively, with chiropractic care including therapy. Larger tears may require surgery.
