Strength is essential to carry out the functions of the shoulder. Many different muscles are required to power the shoulder because of the need to control both humeroscapular and scapulothoracic positions and to allow the vast range of motions of these articulations. For normal function, each muscle must be healthy, conditioned, securely attached, and coordinated.
Weakness of the shoulder can come from deficits in coordination, nerve, muscle or tendon. Often, weak shoulders will respond to a gradually progressive strengthening program. If shoulder weakness does not respond to these exercises, it may be due to a rotator cuff problem, or a nerve injury. In this section we focus our attention on the most common mechanical cause of shoulder weakness, rotator cuff failure.
- Rotator Cuff Failure
- Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears
- Evaluation of the Weak Shoulder
- Home Exercises for the Weak Shoulder
- More Information on Rotator Cuff Surgery
- Repair of Rotator Cuff Tears: Surgery for shoulders with torn rotator cuff tendons can lessen shoulder pain and improve function without acromioplasty
- Subacromial Smoothing
- Treatment of Rotator Cuff Lesions
- Mechanics of Shoulder Strength
- Clinical Conditions Involving the Cuff
- Clinical Conditions Related to the Rotator Cuff
- Rotator Cuff Clinical Presentation
- Rotator Cuff Differential Diagnosis
- Rotator Cuff Historical Review
- Rotator Cuff Imaging Techniques
- Rotator Cuff References
- Rotator Cuff Relevant Anatomy and Mechanics
- Rotator Cuff Treatment
