A rotator cuff is the grouping of tendons and muscles within the shoulder that supports the joint. When this area becomes weakened, most likely from some level of tendinitis, degeneration can occur within one or more of the tendons and muscles. Once a tendon or muscle degenerates, it can tear, causing a torn rotator cuff. This prompts a certain amount of pain, weakness and loss of mobility or range in motion within the shoulder.
Repetitive Stress
One of the most common causes of a torn rotator cuff is repetitive stress--overuse of the muscles and tendons in the shoulder in activities that require you to continually raise your hands over your head, as seen in tennis, baseball and even swimming. It may also occur in certain jobs that demand you to keep your arms elevated, like with painters or mechanics, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Lifting
Another fairly common cause of a torn rotator cuff is lifting. Much like repetitive stress, the muscles and tendons in the shoulder are overused. The act of lifting, especially something of sizable weight, inevitably puts stress on the shoulder, causing strain, and the rotator cuff may eventually tear.
Pulling
Pulling works a lot like lifting, as you're putting a great deal more stress on the muscles and tendons of the shoulder than normal. This stress can cause the tendons to become strained, putting them at a greater risk of tearing.
Falling
While the act of falling doesn't automatically necessitate a tear within the rotator cuff, the way in which you break that fall can. Depending on how you land when taking a spill, your shoulder can take the brunt of a fall, snapping the tendon.
Slouching
Slouching can place an unhealthy amount of pressure on the muscles and tendons in the shoulder. This is because slouching makes the shoulder area that holds the rotator cuff much smaller than normal. Over time, the muscles and tendons can weaken in this pinched position and become more susceptible to a tear.
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