Rotator Cuff Disorders
Prevention
The long-term changes that occur in and around the shoulder joint as a result of everyday wear and tear cannot be totally prevented. But you may be able to prevent some rotator cuff disorders by:
- Keeping the muscles in your shoulders flexible and strong. Daily exercises to maintain strength and flexibility may be the best defense against rotator cuff disorders.
- Keeping good posture at all times. Stand straight and relaxed, without slumping.
- Not lifting objects that are too heavy for you.
- Not catching falling objects.
- Avoiding sports or other activities where forceful contact or falls are likely or common.
- Not keeping your arms out to the side or raised over your head for long periods of time, such as when painting a ceiling. If you must do these activities, take frequent breaks, ice your shoulder several times a day and at night, and take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug to relieve any swelling and pain in the tissues that are being pinched. Ask your health professional if it would be helpful to take an anti-inflammatory medication before activities that may stress your shoulder.
For more exercises you can do at home (with your health professional's approval), see:
 Go to previous section |  Go to top of page |  Go to next section |
| Author: | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH | Last Updated: February 8, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedics | |
 | ||
