What is Shoulder Tendinitis?

Shoulder tendinitis refers to inflammation of the tendons located in the upper bicep or the rotator cuff. Irritation and inflammation can be caused by a sports injury, a direct blow to the shoulder, repetitive movement, or a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis. An individual with shoulder tendinitis usually experiences pain when moving the joint, swelling, and tenderness to the touch. A mild case of tendinitis can usually be relieved with several days of rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medications. A more severe injury may require surgery and physical therapy before a person can regain use of the shoulder.

Most instances of shoulder tendinitis are a result of an awkward twist, direct injury, or repetitive use of the joint. Shoulder problems are very common in contact sports and activities where the shoulder is constantly used, such as throwing a ball. An individual may also experience shoulder tendinitis if he or she is in an accident or suffers a fall where most of the impact is absorbed by the shoulder area. A person with an inflammatory disease like rheumatoid arthritis might also experience tendinitis in the shoulder and other areas throughout the body. Tendinitis can affect the bicipital tendon in the upper arm or the group of tendons near the shoulder joint known as the rotator cuff.

The most common symptoms of tendinitis are tenderness and pain when trying to move the shoulder. Depending on the severity of an injury, the range of motion may be considerably limited, and the joint may swell and bruise over time. Constant and sharp pain may be indicative of a more serious condition like a torn tendon or damaged joint cartilage. Most mild injuries can be treated at home, though a person who experiences intense pain should visit the emergency room or schedule an appointment with a physician.

Overcoming mild shoulder tendinitis usually involves resting the shoulder for a few days and alternating between ice and heat pack applications. Icing the shoulder regularly helps to reduce swelling, and heat packs can soothe sore muscles and tendons. Over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications can provide additional relief and shorten healing time. Performing light stretching exercises after a period of rest can help an individual regain strength and flexibility.

A serious shoulder injury should be carefully examined by a doctor, who can make a diagnosis and arrange for treatment. A physician might prescribe high-strength pain medications and suggest home stretching exercises for a moderate injury, or schedule sessions with a physical therapist for severe tendinitis. A torn bicipital tendon or rotator cuff usually necessitates surgery to reconnect damaged tissue and promote healing. Recovery from a major injury that requires surgery can take as long as six months, and there is an increased possibility of reinjuring the joint.