Tendonitis is the painful inflammation of the tendons, which are tissue bands connecting bone to muscle. It occurs from overuse or strain due to repetitive motion, too much pressure on the joint, or an injury. Tendonitis of the shoulder affects either the tendons of the rotator cuff or the biceps. Rest can be beneficial in treating mild cases of shoulder tendonitis.
However, if your symptoms worsen or do not improve, you need more aggressive treatment, such as:
1. Medication
NSAIDs can help reduce pain and inflammation. Your doctor may also prescribe stronger variants if the symptoms are severe.
Only take medication as prescribed by your doctor and follow the recommended dosage. You should also tell your doctor about other medications you are taking to avoid any drug interactions.
2. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help improve the range of motion and strengthen the rotator cuff muscles. A physical therapist will design a program of exercises to reduce pain and improve shoulder stability.
It can also help prevent future flare-ups of shoulder tendonitis. Your therapy program may include:
- Strengthening exercises to build up the rotator cuff muscles
- Stretching exercises to stretch the shoulder joint and reduce tension
- Posture correction exercises to correct any poor postural habits that may be contributing to the condition
- Therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation to reduce pain
3. Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroids are injected directly into the site of inflammation to reduce swelling and pain. They can provide relief but are usually only used when more conservative treatments fail.
These injections typically contain a combination of steroids and anesthetic to provide quick relief. The effects usually last for several weeks.
4. Surgery
Surgery may be necessary if more conservative treatment options fail to provide relief.
Depending on the severity of the tendonitis, different types of procedures may be recommended. These surgeries can include:
Rotator Cuff Repair
This procedure is used to repair a torn rotator cuff tendon. Your rotator cuff provides stability and movement to the shoulder joint.
These repairs can be arthroscopic or open, depending on the severity of your tendonitis.
- Arthroscopic – a minimally invasive procedure involving small incisions and a camera to repair the tendon.
- Open – a more invasive procedure that involves making larger incisions to repair the tendon
Surgery can help reduce pain and improve function in the shoulder joint. The procedure involves reattaching or reconstructing the damaged tendons and other tissues around the joint.
Arthroscopic Debridement
This procedure removes any inflamed or damaged tissue in the rotator cuff. Arthroscopic debridement can help reduce pain and improve your range of motion.
Biceps Tenodesis
You may need biceps tenodesis if the tendon that connects your biceps muscle to the shoulder joint is torn.
The procedure involves removing and reattaching the tendon, which can help improve your range of motion and reduce pain.
Biceps tenodesis is typically done arthroscopically, but it can also be done with open surgery.
Post-Op Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation is an important part of recovery after surgery. A physical therapist can help you learn how to keep your shoulder joint stable and strong.
Your therapist may design a program to:
- Help you regain range of motion
- Strengthen your rotator cuff muscles
- Improve overall shoulder function
They will also provide you with exercises to help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
In addition, your therapist will teach you how to use proper posture and body mechanics to prevent future flare-ups of shoulder tendonitis.
The Best Treatment for Shoulder Tendonitis
The best treatment for shoulder tendonitis depends on:
- The severity of your symptoms
- What is causing them
- The previous treatments you have tried
Most cases may improve with rest, medication, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections.
Surgery is usually recommended when more conservative treatments fail to provide relief. Your orthopedic surgeon may also suggest it if your shoulder damage is severe.
When to Visit Your Orthopedic Surgeon
See your orthopedic surgeon for a proper diagnosis if you experience shoulder pain.
They will be able to determine the underlying cause. Then, they determine the most effective treatment option for you.
You should also consider visiting your doctor if:
- You experience severe pain, swelling, or redness
- Your shoulder function is limited
- The pain does not respond to rest or other treatments
- You sustain a shoulder injury from a fall or other accident
Your doctor can help determine the best treatment for your shoulder tendonitis. So, get help as soon as possible to reduce the risk of further injury or complications.
Shoulder Tendinitis Treatment Near You in Plantation & Miami Lakes, FL
Need effective shoulder tendinitis treatment near you in Plantation or Miami Lakes? The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center can provide you necessary care. Dr. Kinchelow has advanced training in the treatment of hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder conditions and uses regenerative medicine to help boost recovery. For a proper diagnosis and treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kinchelow.
You may dial our friendly staff today at (954) 635-5300 so we can assist you better. You can also book a visit using our secure online appointment request form.
We look forward to providing you with the best shoulder tendinitis treatment!
