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We take the time needed for a thorough examination to find the underlying cause of your pain.
Airrosti Providers use hands-on manual therapy to treat shoulder tendonitis/tendinitis to reduce pain, increase mobility, and accelerate healing.
No surgery, injections, or prescription medication.
Patients have shorter recovery time with an average of 3.2 visits over 2 weeks.
Speed your recovery and keep your pain from returning.
This group of muscles is also very susceptible to overuse injuries, including tendonitis. In this short video, Casey Crisp, DC explains how to know if you may have a rotator cuff injury. He also demonstrates three simple exercises to help alleviate rotator cuff pain and prevent future injuries.
Still have questions or concerns about your shoulder pain? Schedule a no-cost video chat with one of our Providers.
Shoulder tendonitis (or tendinitis) is an overuse injury caused by an inflammation of your rotator cuff tendons. A tendon is a flexible band of fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. Most tendonitis is a result of a wearing down of the tendon that occurs slowly over time, much like the wearing process on the sole of a shoe, which eventually splits from overuse.
Your rotator cuff consists of four tendons that connect your upper arm bone to your shoulder blade. The most common tendon involved in tendonitis is the supraspinatus tendon. This tendon is positioned between the humeral head and the acromion bone, which provides a roof above the ball and socket joint.
Along with shoulder bursitis, shoulder tendonitis is a frequent cause for shoulder complaints, and it’s the most common condition responsible for shoulder tendon pain in people over the age of 40.
The most common cause of this condition is overuse. This means the tendons in the rotator cuff are overworked beyond what they can handle, and over time they eventually become damaged.
In most cases, this occurs from participating in certain sports and overhead activities that require the arm to move over the head repeatedly. Improper technique in any sport is one of the primary causes of overload on tissues including tendons, which can contribute to tendonitis.
However, you don’t have to be a professional athlete to develop this condition. People with jobs that require overhead work or heavy lifting are also at a greater risk, but any person can develop tendonitis from repetitive use of these tendons.
• Poor posture, such as rounded shoulders, which some people get from leaning over a computer for extended periods of time
• Tight muscles and tissues around the shoulder joint
• Weakness or imbalance of the muscles in and around the shoulder
Your shoulder injury may range from mild inflammation to severe inflammation throughout most of your rotator cuff. When your rotator cuff tendon becomes inflamed and thickened, it is also called rotator cuff tendonitis. Many daily activities, such as combing your hair or getting dressed, may become difficult.
• Shoulder clicking and/or an arc of shoulder pain when your arm is about shoulder height
• Pain when lying on the sore shoulder or lifting with a straight arm
• Pain or clicking when you move your hand behind your back or head
• As your condition gets worse, your pain may be present even at rest
Surgery is rarely necessary for shoulder tendonitis. Most cases are effectively treated with conservative methods, such as rest, physical therapy, Airrosti care, medications, and corticosteroid injections. Surgery is only considered in severe cases, like when the tendon is torn or if the condition doesn’t improve after several months of non-surgical treatment. A healthcare provider will evaluate the severity of your condition and recommend surgery only if absolutely necessary.
Yes, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain caused by shoulder tendonitis. In more severe cases, a healthcare provider may recommend stronger medications or corticosteroid injections. It’s important to follow the advice of a healthcare provider, especially if you have any other medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Yes, self-care techniques and exercises can help manage shoulder tendonitis. Initially, resting the shoulder and applying ice can reduce pain and inflammation. Once the pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises, such as pendulum swings, shoulder blade squeezes, and external rotations, can improve mobility and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder. An Airrosti provider can help to develop a safe and effective exercise routine for you to prevent future injuries.
Yes, limiting activities that strain the shoulder, such as overhead lifting, repetitive motions, or heavy lifting, is crucial to allow the tendon to heal. Resting from activities that aggravate the pain is important in the early stages of recovery. Gradually resuming activity with proper form and guidance from a healthcare provider or physical therapist is recommended to avoid re-injury and promote a full recovery.
We offer both in-clinic and telehealth appointments to best suit your needs.
Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic
Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.
