Preventing & Relieving Rotator Cuff Injuries: Dr. Rick Lehman Shares Expert Advice on FOX 2 News

When most people hear “rotator cuff injury,” they think of professional pitchers or elite athletes. But rotator cuff injuries are extremely common—and can affect anyone, from active adults to weekend warriors to desk-bound professionals.

On a FOX 2 News appearance, Dr. Rick Lehman, MD, FACS, world-renowned orthopedic surgeon and Medical Director of Lehman Joint and Performance, shared key insights on how to prevent these painful shoulder injuries and how to find lasting relief.

Read the full FOX 2 segment: Preventing and Getting Relief from Rotator Cuff Injuries

1. Maintain Full Shoulder Range of Motion

Try this self-check at home:

• Reach one hand behind your back. Can you slide your hand upwards along your spine, to touch the bottom of your shoulder blade?
• Reach one hand behind your head. Can you move it down your neck to touch between your shoulder blades?
• Note any differences from one arm to the other.

Towel Stretch to Improve Flexibility:

If there is any restriction, do the towel stretch to gain flexibility:

• Place a towel behind your back, with one hand holding from the top and the other hand holding from the bottom.
• Try to walk your fingers together and also gently pull from either direction, into the most restricted motion.
• Hold 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat 3 times.

2. Strengthen the Rotator Cuff Muscles

Do these exercises at a cable tower, starting with enough weight to fatigue at 10 to 12 repetitions:

Internal Rotation:

• Stand with your lifting arm closest to the cable machine, with your elbow flexed to 90-degrees.
• Rotate your hand from outside to inwards, bringing your hand towards your belly.

External Rotation:

• Switch positions so that your lifting arm is farthest from the cable machine.
• Keep your elbow bent at 90-degrees and rotate your hand outwards from your abdomen.

Struggling with Shoulder Pain or Limited Mobility?

Whether you’re dealing with a nagging shoulder injury or want to prevent rotator cuff damage before it starts, Dr. Rick Lehman, a global leader in sports medicine and regenerative care, is here to help.

Take the first step toward stronger, pain-free shoulders and Request Consultation today.