3DPT’s NFL Injury Review: Rotator Cuff injuries

Shoulder injuries are pretty common in the NFL. In fact, last season 2 Philadelphia Eagles players, QB, Jalen Hurts and Tight End, Dallas Goedert, missed multiple games due to injuries to the shoulder. One of the most common injuries seen during the football season is a rotator cuff injury. This kind of injury usually occurs with overuse. It is common with quarterbacks who throw the football frequently, but it can also happen due to a fall or by getting tackled by another player.

So what’s a player to do for a Rotator cuff injury?

One of the key goals in rehabbing a rotator cuff injury is to regain strength and stability in the shoulder joint. Why? Because strong and stable muscles around the shoulder help support and protect the injured area, preventing future issues and allowing you to return to your normal activities with confidence.

Stability training focuses on improving the control and coordination of your shoulder joint. By challenging your balance and control, stability exercises help retrain your muscles to work together harmoniously, reducing the risk of re-injury and improving your shoulder’s functional stability.

A Physical Therapy program will include a range of exercises targeting both strength and stability. These exercises may include resistance band exercises, dumbbell exercises, shoulder rotations, scapular stabilization exercises, and more. Each exercise is carefully designed to progressively challenge your shoulder, helping it get stronger and more stable over time

In this video, 3DPT West Berlin’s Dr. Grant Silhanek demonstrates a few exercises designed to help build strength and stability after a rotator cuff injury

Remember, patience and consistency are key when rehabbing a rotator cuff injury. It’s a journey, but with the right exercises and guidance from your physical therapist, you’ll be well on your way to regaining strength, stability, and full functionality in your shoulder. Don’t underestimate the power of strength and stability training – they’re your best allies in the road to recovery!