Shoulder tendinitis, also known as supraspinatus tendinopathy, is a condition caused by inflammation of the tendons, leading to pain and other symptoms in the affected area. It is one of the most common shoulder, and the leading cause of shoulder pain. The condition occurs more frequently—but not exclusively—in athletes who frequently perform overhead movements, such as swimmers and tennis players. The disorder progresses gradually when the tendon is repeatedly subjected to more stress than it can tolerate.
Causes of Shoulder Tendinitis
The most common causes of shoulder tendinitis include:
- Excessive and continuous shoulder strain – overuse
- Repetitive microtraumas
- Intense and repetitive athletic activity
- Poor technique during sports or training
- Anatomical factors (structural abnormalities of the shoulder)
- Incorrect posture
- Age (individuals over 40 are more susceptible)
- Previous shoulder injuries .
- Thyroid disorders, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism
- Various types of arthritis.
Symptoms of Shoulder Tendinitis
The symptoms associated with shoulder tendinitis include:
- Shoulder pain, which may worsen even at rest or present as nocturnal pain, potentially waking the patient from sleep
- Swelling near the joint
- Stiffness
- Reduced range of motion
- Weakness in raising the arm above shoulder level
- Upper limb weakness
- Crepitus (a grinding or cracking sensation)
Diagnosis and Management of Shoulder Tendinitis
For the physician to determine the most appropriate treatment, a precise diagnosis of the condition is essential. Diagnosis requires a comprehensive medical history and clinical examination and is confirmed with imaging studies, including X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound.
The treatment of shoulder tendinitis can be either conservative or surgical. Conservative management strategies include:
- Appropriate pharmacological therapy
- Avoidance of movements that provoke shoulder pain
- Shockwave therapy
- Ultrasound-guided therapeutic injections (e.g., PRP, prolotherapy, collagen, corticosteroids)
- Physical therapy programs incorporating magnetic stimulation and Tecar therapy
- Muscle strengthening exercises
In severe cases, or in cases where conservative methods fail to resolve the condition, surgical intervention is indicated. Surgery is performed using arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique that provides excellent outcomes and allows rapid recovery for patients.
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