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The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize and move the shoulder:
Together they center the humeral head in the glenoid socket and enable elevation, rotation, and controlled shoulder mechanics during daily tasks and sport. When these tissues are irritated or torn, pain and weakness can make even simple movements challenging.
Inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons from repetitive loading (overhead work, swimming, throwing). Symptoms include localized tenderness, painful arc with lifting, and night pain.
Irritation of the subacromial bursa—the fluid-filled cushion between tendons and bone. Often coexists with tendinitis. Presents with diffuse lateral shoulder pain, especially reaching overhead or behind the back.
Structural damage to one or more tendons. Tears may be acute (fall, heavy lift) or degenerative (progressive wear). Expect weakness (especially in elevation or external rotation), painful catching, and sleep disturbance. Larger tears often cause noticeable loss of strength.
If symptoms persist beyond a week or two—or follow a clear injury—seek a clinical evaluation.
A thorough evaluation combines history, physical exam, and imaging when indicated.
At Ke'Ale Chiropractic in Honolulu, Dr. Wyland Luke performs focused orthopedic and functional assessments to pinpoint the pain generator and contributing mechanics, referring for imaging or orthopedic consults when appropriate.
Most rotator cuff conditions improve without surgery when care is structured and progressive.
Ke'Ale Chiropractic’s approach blends precise manual care with phased strengthening and scapular retraining, a combination that often restores function for Honolulu’s surfers, paddlers, and overhead athletes without escalating to surgery.
Surgical consultation may be appropriate when:
Procedures include arthroscopic debridement or repair, open repair for larger tears, tendon transfer in complex cases, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty for massive, irreparable tears with cuff arthropathy. Post-surgical rehab remains essential for outcomes.
In Honolulu’s active lifestyle—paddling, volleyball, throwing sports—consistent prehab reduces injury risk and supports performance.
Dr. Wyland Luke tailors care to your goals and timeline:
Most patients improve with a few weeks of structured care; more chronic or severe cases often resolve over a few months with adherence to rehab and load management.
Q: How long does recovery take?
A: Mild tendinitis may improve in 3–6 weeks. Persistent tendinopathy or partial tears commonly need 8–16 weeks. Post-surgical repairs require several months of progressive rehab.
Q: Can I still exercise?
A: Yes, but avoid painful overhead or loaded movements early on. Lower body and core training are typically safe. Your plan will reintroduce shoulder loading in phases.
Q: Will I need surgery?
A: Most cases resolve with conservative care. Surgery is considered when significant tears or nonresponsive pain and weakness persist despite a thorough conservative plan.
Q: Do rotator cuff injuries heal on their own?
A: Irritation and small partial tears can heal with rest and progressive loading. Larger tears may not fully heal but can become asymptomatic and functional with targeted rehab.
Q: How can I sleep more comfortably?
A: Sleep on your back with the arm supported by a pillow, or on the opposite side hugging a pillow to keep the shoulder slightly forward and down. Avoid sleeping on the painful side.
Ke'Ale Chiropractic in Honolulu provides precise diagnosis, hands-on care, and rehab plans that get you back to work, sport, and daily life—safely and efficiently. Book an appointment with Dr. Wyland Luke to start your recovery.
