Tendonitis of the shoulder is an inflammation of the rotator cuff and/or biceps tendon. Shoulder tendonitis is usually the result of a tendon being pinched by surrounding structures. Shoulder tendonitis often occurs in certain sports that require the
arm to move over the head repeatedly, such as in baseball, weightlifting, racket sports, and certain swimming strokes. The injury may vary from mild inflammation to involvement of most of the rotator cuff.
When the rotator cuff tendon becomes inflamed and thickened, also known as rotator cuff tendonitis, it may get trapped under the acromion (the roof, or highest point, of the shoulder that is formed by a part of the scapula, or shoulder
blade).
Symptoms of Shoulder Tendonitis
The following are the most common symptoms of shoulder tendonitis. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- inability to hold arm in certain positions
- pain or tenderness in the shoulder
The symptoms of shoulder tendonitis may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult a doctor for a diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Shoulder Tendonitis
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for shoulder tendonitis may include an X-ray (a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones,
and organs onto film), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and/or ultrasound.
Treatment for Shoulder Tendonitis
Specific treatment for shoulder tendonitis will be determined by your doctor based on:
- your age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the condition
- your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- expectations for the course of the condition
- your opinion or preference
Treatment may include:
- rest
- ice or heat
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- strengthening exercises
- ultrasound therapy
- corticosteroid injection
- surgery (for severe injuries)
Advanced Treatment: Tenex Tenotomy
The Tenex tenotomy procedure is a non-surgical procedure used to treat chronic pain associated with tendinitis/tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis/fasciosis. The minimally invasive technique can reduce tendon pain by breaking down and removing damaged tissues with high-frequency ultrasound energy. The procedure is commonly used to treat tendinitis/tendinopathy of the elbow, hip, knee, shoulder, ankle, and plantar fascia. The procedure is performed using local anesthetic and ultrasound guidance which makes it extremely safe. The procedure is minimally invasive and allows patients to return to normal activities faster than surgery.
The procedure is performed though a small skin puncture (2-3mm) and the device is advanced to the diseased tendon or plantar fascia using ultrasound guidance. The device then removes the diseased tissue and stimulates your bodies normal healing response. The device is then removed and small bandage is applied. Patients go home shortly after the procedure and typically have a short course (3-7 days) of relative immobilization in a sling or walking boot.