Rotator Cuff
K TAPE: ROTATOR CUFF
The rotator cuff is the group of muscles and their tendons that act to stabilize the shoulder. These muscles are relatively small, yet are extremely important in all shoulder movements. They start at the shoulder blade and connect to the upper arm in a fashion that forms a “cuff” to provide the needed stability and mechanics of the shoulder.
To further explain the vital nature of these muscles, understand that the shoulder joint is much like a golf ball sitting on a tee. This design is necessary for the wide range of motion needed from the arm, but inherently creates a relatively unstable joint. The rotator cuff muscles are the muscles responsible for countering this unstable state. Though often thought to be an injury-related specifically to athletic activity, incidents of rotator cuff injury is just as high in non-athletic populations.
COMMON CAUSES OF ROTATOR CUFF PAIN
Rotator cuff injuries generally involve many factors. Incidents of injury increase with age and degeneration of the tendons, but younger individuals with this condition have likely overused the shoulder joint or have developed muscle imbalances or poor biomechanics. Causes include muscle tears, overuse, hyperextension or hyperflexion of the shoulder, poor throwing form, among others. The tendons at the ends of the rotator cuff muscles can become torn or inflamed and lead to pain or restricted arm movement. Torn rotator cuffs can also occur following acute trauma to the shoulder, or more commonly through the overuse of the tendons. Athletes or individuals that frequently make repeated throwing motions, swinging motions, or explosive pushing or pulling motions are especially at high risk. Swimming, racquet sports, and throwing sports are all good examples of activities with high incidents of rotator cuff problems.
SYMPTOMS OF ROTATOR CUFF ISSUES
Rotator cuff pain presents as pain among the muscles in the shoulder that are responsible for rotation and lifting. Pain is generally felt at the front and outside of the shoulder or in the shoulder itself. Symptoms include pain, weakness, raised shoulders, and decreased range of motion. The pain is made worse with activities requiring the arm to operate overhead or out in front of the body. Clicking, catching, or snapping are rare symptoms in rotator cuff injuries and may be indicative of other problems such as a torn labrum or fracture. Early diagnosis and action is essential to prevent irreparable damage.
HOW K TAPE CAN HELP
K Tape can be used during the healing process to provide support, reduce pain, and reduce swelling for many injuries*. Icing after activity and rest are essential and should be combined with NSAIDs to combat inflammation and pain. After the initial healing process has completed, a strengthening rehab program should be implemented.
General Shoulder
Neck & Shoulders
K TAPE: NECK AND SHOULDER
The neck is a vital component of our anatomy due to its responsibility for connecting our brain to the rest of the body. Everything that passes through the neck is vital and relies heavily on the proper function of the musculoskeletal system to protect and support these structures.
PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH NECK PAIN
Stress is stored in these muscles and can cause headaches, shoulder pain, and other damaging compensations. Sitting at a computer all day, looking down while running, whiplash, sleeping poorly, or sudden movements and changes in direction are also common causes of neck pain.
COMMON CAUSES OF NECK PAIN
Factors include muscle strain, ligament sprains, arthritis, spinal subluxations, pinched nerves, knots or adhesions, and countless other musculoskeletal complications. The pain is usually not only felt in the neck itself, but also into the base of the neck and the shoulders. Generally, the pain can be categorized into two conditions: muscle strain or myofascial strain.
NECK PAIN SYMPTOMS
Muscle strain can occur when there is an injury to the muscles of the neck, causing spasm of the cervical and upper back muscles. The strain may result from the physical stresses of everyday life, including poor posture, muscle tension from psychological stress, or poor sleeping habits. Typically, symptoms include pain, stiffness, and tightness in the upper back or shoulder. Myofascial pain causes tight and tender areas of muscle that are sensitive to pressure. Myofascial pain in the neck can develop after trauma or with other medical conditions such as psychological stress, depression, or insomnia.
K TAPE CAN HELP
K Tape alleviates pain, provides support, reduces swelling and helps promote the healing process*. Generally, individuals will feel immediate support and pain relief upon taping*. Use K Tape that closely matches your skin color if you don’t want to have tape as visible during more formal times.
Consider complimentary measures as well. Try posture improvement, massage, physio, and ice.
K Tape helps relieve pain and and provide support, but please seek care if pain becomes severe, there is a loss in movement, or symptoms get worse.