From raising your hand, throwing a ball, and hugging your friends and family, your shoulders are an important joint for movement. However, when the tendons of your shoulder become inflamed and swollen, a condition called shoulder tendinitis can develop.
Let’s learn more about this condition, including its common risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options available.
Understanding Shoulder Tendinitis
The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles that help to stabilize and move the shoulder. The rotator cuff tendons are tough cords of tissue that are responsible for attaching these muscles to the bones.
When there is inflammation of the tendons or shoulder tendinitis, you may experience these symptoms:
- Pain in the shoulder or upper arm
- Shoulder stiffness
- Shoulder weakness
- Difficulty moving the shoulder
- Clicking or popping noises in the shoulder
Are You at Risk for Developing Shoulder Tendinitis?
Shoulder tendinitis is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders, affecting millions of people each year. It is cited as one of the most common causes of shoulder pain and stiffness.
Are you at risk for developing shoulder tendinitis? Several things can make you more vulnerable to developing this condition. Here are some common factors that can increase your risk for shoulder tendinitis.
Age
As we age, our tendons become less flexible and more prone to injury. This is because the collagen fibers in our tendons break down and become more disorganized over time. This makes it more difficult for the tendons to withstand the stress of repetitive use or overhead movements.
Occupation
People with jobs requiring repetitive overhead movements or heavy lifting are at increased risk for shoulder tendinitis. These activities put a lot of stress on the rotator cuff muscles and tendons. Examples of jobs that can increase your risk for shoulder tendinitis include construction workers, waiters, assembly line workers, and more.
Sports
Athletes who participate in sports that require repetitive overhead movements are also at increased risk for shoulder tendinitis. Sports put a lot of stress on the rotator cuff muscles and tendons. Some examples of these sports are:
- Basketball
- Tennis
- Volleyball
- Swimming
- Weightlifting
Health History
People who have had previous shoulder injuries are also at increased risk for shoulder tendinitis. This is because previous injuries can damage the tendons and make them more likely to become inflamed.
There are also certain medical conditions that can increase your risk for shoulder tendinitis. These conditions can weaken the tendons and make them more susceptible to injury. Examples of medical conditions that can increase your risk for tendinitis include:
- Diabetes
- Arthritis
- Thyroid disease, and
- Gout
Other Common Risk Factors
Other common risk factors for developing shoulder tendinitis include:
- Poor posture
- Weak or tight muscles in the shoulder
- Smoking
- Obesity
How an Orthopedist Can Help You with Shoulder Tendinitis
Shoulder tendinitis is a serious orthopedic condition that can affect your everyday life. An orthopedic specialist can guide you through diagnosing your condition and creating a treatment plan to help you get better.
Diagnosis
To diagnose shoulder tendinitis, your doctor will likely perform a physical examination and ask you about your symptoms. They may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out other causes of shoulder pain.
Treatment
If you’ve been diagnosed with shoulder tendinitis, don’t worry; there are many treatment options for the condition. Most cases of shoulder tendinitis can be treated with non-invasive measures, such as the R.I.C.E. method, medication, and physical therapy. For more severe cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to improve your shoulder function and reduce pain.
Prevention
If you find yourself with an increased risk of developing shoulder tendinitis, it’s important to stay on top of your shoulder’s health. Protect your shoulder joints’ muscles and tendons with these simple tips:
- Warm up before activities that stress your shoulders. A good warm-up will help to increase the blood flow to your shoulders and loosen up your muscles and tendons.
- Use proper form and technique when performing overhead movements or heavy lifting activities.
- Take breaks throughout the day to rest your shoulders. This is especially important if you have a job that requires repetitive overhead movements or heavy lifting.
- Strengthen the muscles in your shoulders. Strong shoulder muscles can help to support the rotator cuff tendons and reduce the risk of injury.
- Maintain good posture. Poor posture can put additional stress on the rotator cuff tendons.
- Avoid smoking. Smoking can damage the tendons and make them more susceptible to injury.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put additional stress on the rotator cuff tendons.
Shoulder Tendinitis Treatment in Miami Lakes, FL
The orthopedic surgeons at Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center in Florida can provide expert treatment for your shoulder tendinitis. We will create an individualized treatment plan based on the results of our assessment. Our goal is to ensure you experience timely relief from your symptoms and restore the normal use of your shoulder.
To know more about our comprehensive services or to schedule your consultation with one of our providers, call us today at (954) 635-5300 or fill out our online appointment request form.
