Shoulder pain can be quite bothersome, especially when it affects daily activities. One of the most common causes of shoulder discomfort is shoulder tendonitis. This condition results from inflammation or irritation of the tendons in the shoulder, leading to pain and restricted movement. Let’s explore the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for shoulder tendonitis.
What is Shoulder Tendonitis?
Shoulder tendonitis, also known as rotator cuff tendonitis, is an inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder joint. It typically occurs due to overuse, injury, or aging, leading to discomfort and limited movement.
Symptoms of Shoulder Tendonitis
The symptoms of shoulder tendonitis can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Common signs include:
- Pain and tenderness – A dull ache or sharp pain in the shoulder, especially when lifting or moving the arm.
- Stiffness – Difficulty moving the arm, particularly in overhead motions.
- Swelling and warmth – Mild swelling around the affected area.
- Weakness – Reduced strength in the affected arm, making it difficult to perform routine tasks.
- Pain at night – Discomfort while lying on the affected side, disrupting sleep.
Causes of Shoulder Tendonitis
Several factors contribute to the development of shoulder tendonitis, including:
- Repetitive Movements: Activities that involve frequent overhead motion, such as swimming, tennis, and weightlifting, can strain the shoulder tendons.
- Aging: Tendons weaken with age, increasing the risk of inflammation and tears.
- Poor Posture: Slouching or incorrect positioning of the shoulder can put excess pressure on the tendons.
- Injury: A sudden impact or trauma to the shoulder can lead to tendonitis.
- Degenerative Conditions: Arthritis and other age-related conditions may contribute to tendon inflammation.
Diagnosis of Shoulder Tendonitis
A doctor can diagnose shoulder tendonitis through:
- Physical Examination: Assessing pain, movement, and flexibility.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasound can help detect inflammation or tears in the tendons.
Treatment Options
Shoulder tendonitis can be managed effectively through various treatments:
1. Conservative Treatments
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that worsen the pain can help in recovery.
- Cold and Heat Therapy: Applying ice packs can reduce swelling, while heat therapy can improve blood flow.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin can reduce inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises can improve mobility and prevent further injury.
2. Medical Interventions
- Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, steroid injections may be administered to reduce inflammation.
- Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): A non-invasive technique that stimulates healing.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A regenerative treatment using the patient’s own blood components to heal the tendons.
3. Surgical Treatment
If non-surgical treatments do not provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. The most common procedures include:
- Arthroscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure to remove inflamed tissue.
- Open Surgery: In severe cases, a surgeon may need to repair or remove damaged tendons.
Prevention Tips
Preventing shoulder tendonitis is possible by adopting healthy habits, such as:
- Practicing proper posture and ergonomics.
- Warming up before engaging in strenuous activities.
- Strengthening shoulder muscles through regular exercise.
- Avoiding excessive repetitive movements without adequate rest.
Conclusion
Shoulder tendonitis can be painful and limit mobility, but with proper care and treatment, recovery is possible. If you experience persistent shoulder pain, it is essential to seek medical advice to prevent further complications. Early intervention, combined with lifestyle changes, can help you regain strength and resume daily activities without discomfort.
👨⚕️ Dr. Saurabh Khare,
Joint Replacement & Sports Injury Specialist
☎️ +91-9993578939
📍 Clinic Locations:
🏥 Joint & Sports Injury Orthopedic Clinic: MIG 69, Sector 1, Shankar Nagar, Raipur
🏥 SMC Superspeciality Hospital: VIP Estate, Vidhan Sabha Road, Mowa, Raipur
🌐 www.sportsmedicineraipur.com