Overview

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Shoulder pain can make simple movements like reaching, lifting, throwing, dressing, or sleeping on one side difficult and frustrating. By the end of this course, learners will understand how rotator cuff dysfunction develops, how to recognize common patterns of pain and restriction, and how targeted assessment, manual therapy, and corrective strategies can support better shoulder function. Presented by Dr. Jonathan Kuttner, this course explores the four rotator cuff muscles in depth, including their role in shoulder stability, movement control, trigger point formation, muscle imbalance, and compensation. Learners gain a clearer understanding of why shoulder pain often involves more than one irritated structure. Through anatomy tutorials, case examples, and practical demonstrations, learners study assessment concepts, manual therapy techniques, stretching strategies, heat and ice protocols, and movement-based recovery principles. Healthcare, fitness, and bodywork professionals will gain useful tools for improving treatment precision, while non-clinical learners will better understand why rotator cuff problems happen and how recovery can be supported. This course offers a practical framework for restoring comfort, mobility, and pain-free shoulder movement.

Syllabus

Rotator Cuff Anatomy

In the first module, Dr. Kuttner presents a clear, practical breakdown of the rotator cuff and its unique role in shoulder function. The rotator cuff is introduced not as four isolated muscles but as a synergistic system responsible for stabilising the humeral head and guiding precise shoulder movement. The module explains how the rotator cuff interacts with the larger shoulder muscles, how the scapula forms the functional base for movement, and why shoulder pain often develops from imbalance, posture, or overload.

Advanced Shoulder Anatomy

In this Module you will learn the key actions of each muscle (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis), how to recognise common mechanical faults, and how these contribute to impingement, painful arcs of movement, or loss of range.

Rotator Cuff Treatment

Module 3 translates anatomical knowledge into hands-on application. Dr. Kuttner demonstrates step-by-step trigger point treatment for all four main muscles of the rotator cuff. You will learn how to accurately locate each muscle using surface anatomy landmarks, how to palpate to identify taut bands and trigger points, and how to apply trigger point pressure safely and effectively.Detailed demonstrations show therapist hand positioning, body mechanics, pressure direction, and how to monitor client feedback. You will also see how to integrate stretching or movement after release to restore resting length and function. The module emphasises precision rather than force — working with tissue responsiveness, not against it.By the end of Module 2, therapists will be able to confidently identify, treat, and reduce trigger point activity in the rotator cuff, improving range of motion, decreasing pain, and supporting long-term recovery.

Course Exam

This final exam is designed to assess your understanding of the key concepts presented throughout the course. Please review all video lessons and written materials before beginning. A passing score of 70% or higher is required to successfully complete the course and earn your CE certificate. You may reference your notes during the exam. Once you pass, your certificate will be available for immediate download.