Shoulder tendonitis is a condition that occurs when the tendons in the shoulder become inflamed. This inflammation can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder, making it difficult to move the arm and perform daily activities.

There are several causes of shoulder tendonitis, including overuse, injury, and age-related degeneration. In this article, we will explore the symptoms of shoulder tendonitis and discuss treatment options.

Symptoms of Shoulder Tendonitis

The symptoms of shoulder tendonitis can vary, depending on the severity of the condition and the affected tendon. Some of the most common symptoms include:.

Pain in the shoulder, which may be sharp, dull, or achy
Stiffness in the shoulder, which may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity
Weakness in the shoulder, which may make it difficult to lift objects or perform daily tasks
Tenderness in the shoulder, especially when pressure is applied
Swelling or inflammation in the shoulder

If left untreated, shoulder tendonitis can lead to other complications, such as frozen shoulder or rotator cuff tears.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Diagnosing Shoulder Tendonitis

Diagnosing shoulder tendonitis typically involves a physical exam and medical history review. Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the inflammation or injury.

Treatment Options for Shoulder Tendonitis

There are several treatment options for shoulder tendonitis, depending on the severity of the condition and the affected tendon. Some of the most common treatment options include:.

Rest and Ice

One of the first steps in treating shoulder tendonitis is to reduce inflammation and pain. This can be done by resting the affected shoulder and applying ice to the area. The ice can be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can also be an effective treatment option for shoulder tendonitis.

A physical therapist can help you develop a personalized exercise plan that can strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected tendon, improving range of motion and reducing pain and stiffness.

Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can also help reduce pain and inflammation associated with shoulder tendonitis.

In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe stronger pain medication or a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation.

Surgery

In severe cases of shoulder tendonitis, surgery may be required to repair the damaged tendon. This is typically a last resort, after other treatment options have failed to improve symptoms.

Preventing Shoulder Tendonitis

There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing shoulder tendonitis, including:.

Exercising regularly to improve strength and flexibility in the shoulder muscles
Stretching before exercising or performing physical activities that require repetitive shoulder movements
Avoiding overuse of the shoulder by taking frequent breaks and alternating arms when performing repetitive tasks
Using proper form and technique when lifting heavy objects or engaging in physical activities

Conclusion

Shoulder tendonitis is a common condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and weakness in the shoulder.

If you are experiencing any symptoms of shoulder tendonitis, it is important to seek medical attention to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Treatment options may include rest and ice, physical therapy, medications, or, in severe cases, surgery. By taking preventive measures and keeping your shoulders strong and flexible, you can reduce your risk of developing shoulder tendonitis.