Shoulder Tendonitis Symptoms & Treatment Options

The symptoms you experience and treatment you receive depend on the state of your shoulder tendonitis. This condition occurs in three stages, which include the following:

• Overuse tendonitis: Repetitive shoulder movement during activities like overhead lifting, throwing, and golfing may cause stress on the rotator cuff, irritation, and tendon fraying, leading to tendonitis.
• Calcific tendonitis: Long-term inflammation can cause calcium build-up in the rotator cuff tendons, which could lead to loss of strength and range of motion.
• Rotator cuff tear: This is a severe stage of tendonitis resulting from long-term deterioration or a sudden injury and can result in severe pain and stiffness. 

During our evaluation of your condition, we determine which stage of shoulder tendonitis you have using X-ray imaging, sound waves, and MRIs. Our caring specialists strive to communicate clearly and openly so that you understand your condition’s severity and treatment options. With our years of experience, extensive knowledge, and refined skills, you can trust us to accurately diagnose and treat your shoulder tendonitis, regardless of severity.

HOW TO GET DIAGNOSED WITH SHOULDER TENDONITIS

If you think you have shoulder tendonitis but want to get a diagnosis before seeking proper treatment, you will need to visit a medical practitioner to receive an assessment. Certain general practitioners and physical therapists may offer an assessment in certain cases and if they are qualified to do so, but you can also receive an assessment directly from a surgeon at NJ Spine & Orthopedic.

Our surgeons can assess your condition and determine whether you will need surgery to appropriately treat your condition, and they can also perform any necessary procedures on you with confidence. If you need more information about receiving a diagnosis, we invite you to contact us at your convenience.

Your Treatment Options for Shoulder Tendonitis

Every case of shoulder tendonitis is different, so every patient requires a unique solution. We perform a comprehensive evaluation to assess your condition and determine the best path to full recovery. Depending on the severity of your condition, we may recommend the following treatments:

• Ice: Applying an ice pack to your affected shoulder after an activity that aggravates the area can help reduce swelling and inflammation. You may also apply ice packs routinely twice daily in 20-minute increments.
• Rest: If overuse or strenuous activity caused your shoulder tendonitis, avoiding that activity and resting your shoulder can help alleviate pain.
• Medication: Shoulder tendonitis pain may be treated with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injection, which we insert into the shoulder bursa to relieve discomfort.
• Surgery: You may need surgery if you have chronic shoulder tendonitis or rotator cuff tears. Our experienced surgeons may perform an arthroscopy, a minimally-invasive procedure with quick recovery. 
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help exercise and treat your shoulder to prevent a recurrence. 

When returning to sports and other activities after treatment, it’s important to wait until your symptoms clear, warm up before workouts, and use proper swimming and throwing techniques to prevent any future tears or irritation. We support you before, during, and after treatment so that you always know what to expect and how to care for your shoulder.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE TREATMENT PROCESS

If you require surgical treatment for your shoulder tendonitis, you may not know what to expect about the process that lies ahead. You will generally require an assessment from your surgeon to determine whether you have diagnosable shoulder tendonitis and whether you will benefit from arthroscopic surgery.

The surgery for your shoulder tendonitis will be minimally invasive, meaning the healing process should be quick and generally un-impactful on your daily life while you heal. Arthroscopy can help relieve pain and improve comfort in your shoulder mobility very quickly.

If you have shoulder pain that wakes you up at night or worsens over time, you may want to see a professional about shoulder tendonitis. This condition can make it difficult to move your arm and limit your ability to participate in sports and other activities. At NJ Spine & Orthopedic, we understand the frustrations and pain of shoulder tendonitis, so we do everything we can to treat it based on your needs and comfort level.