Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
Rotator cuff tendonitis is a degenerative condition of any one, or a combination of any of the four rotator cuff tendons. The Supraspinatus and Infraspinatus are the most commonly affected.
Symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
- Pain on rotation of the shoulder, especially against resistance.
- There may also be pain on abduction (raising the arm out to the side) if the Supraspinatus muscle is involved.
- Tenderness when pressing on the affected tendon(s).
- The tendon may feel thickened.
- There may be a creaking feeling (crepitus) when moving the tendon.
Causes
Rotator cuff tendonitis is a degenerative, overuse injury. It is caused by repetitive movements rather than one sudden injury.
The reason why a rotator cuff tendon develops tendonitis is usually at least in part, related to poor posture. A forward, rounded shoulder reduces the space in the joint through which the tendons pass. This can lead to the tendons rubbing on the underside of the acromion process at the top of the shoulder joint. Repeated friction leads to pain and deneration. Thickening of the tendon can make the situation even worse and may lead to an impingement syndrome.
Rotator cuff tendonitis may also be called tendinopathy which is a more accurate name for the condition. The 'itis' at the end of tendonitis refers to inflammation, which has been shown to be absent in this condition. Tendonitis is still the most commonly used term.
Other similar terms include tendinitis, which is simply an alternative spelling, and tenosynovitis which is degeneration of the sheath surrounding the tendon.
Treatment of a Rotator Cuff Tendonitis
What can the athlete do?
- Rest from activities which cause pain.
- Apply ice for 15 minutes every 3-4 hours to ease pain and swelling.
- See a sports injury specialist.
What can a specialist do?
- Examine the injury to confirm the diagnosis.
- Refer for an MRI or ultrasound scan to help with diagnosis.
- Use electrotherapy treatments such as ultrasound and laser.
- Use sports massage to relax tight muscles and friction the tendon.
- Help determine the cause of the injury.
- Address causes such as poor posture and muscle imbalances with exercises, taping and workspace evaluation.
- Design a rehabilitation programme to strengthen the associated muscles and correct muscle imbalances.
