Rotator Cuff Weakness
Shoulder - Strength
Rotator cuff weakness reduces shoulder stability and increases the risk of impingement and labral overload.
Biomechanical Mechanism
Weak external rotators and poor scapular control allow humeral head migration and altered joint mechanics.
Clinical Rationale
Rotator cuff weakness increases joint stress and risk of impingement. Targeted strengthening improves stability.
Practical Solution
Build rotator cuff endurance and scapular control before heavy overhead loading.
Common Compensations
- Scapular hiking
- Anterior humeral glide
- Limited overhead control
Progression
- Level 1: Isometrics
- Level 2: Light resistance
- Level 3: Integrated movement
- Level 4: Overhead loading
Regression
- Reduce resistance
- Use supported positions
- Shorten ROM
Red Flags
- Severe pain
- Loss of strength
- History of tear
Differential Diagnosis
- Rotator cuff tear
- Impingement
- Cervical referral
Related Patterns
Related Exercises
- external rotation band
- scapular squeeze
- ytw series
- face pull
- serratus push up
- banded pull apart
Related Assessments
Evidence
Level: moderate
Exercise therapy is consistently supported for rotator cuff-related shoulder pain, indicating benefit from strengthening.
Sources:
- systematic review/meta-analysis: Effects of seven types of exercise in the treatment of rotator cuff-related shoulder pain (RCRSP): a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis. (link)