muscle degeneration in shoulder???

Hi...

Just wondering, if a rotator cuff muscle has an acute/ chronic injury is it possible that muscle loss/atrophy will be visible in the in the structure of the shoulder? If so, would it be suggested to exercise those muscles right away or to give them an opportunity to heal (if there is atrophy, would there actually be any healing process occuring)?

Yes. you would be able to see atrophy in a muscle if it is chronic. and sometimes if acute if it is inhibited.

I just use my personal judgement to decide what to strengthen and when. I personally would use isometrics to the shoulder musculature if acute. Base the force output on amount of pain per patient (sub-maximal to maximal isometrics). If isometrics are pain-free then you can proceed to RC strengthening therex (concentric to eccentric).

Just base what you do on the patient response. If they aren't hurting with the therex then you are doing good.

hi
i dont think we will be able to detect atrophy of rotator cuff accurately.these are my rationale behind it
rotator cuff is deep and blended with the shoulder capsule
it is covered by the bulk of deltoid in major part and also pectorals
the supraspinous fossa is superficially covered by the trapezius,which makes supraspinatus atrophy detection practically difficult
eager to see other viewpoints