Shoulder tendon inflammation

A tendon inflammation in the shoulder is a reaction of the tendon to overuse. The tendon is damaged and becomes irritated. The tendon swells and the shoulder becomes more difficult to use. It is important to know that blood flow in tendon tissue is much less than in muscle tissue. As a result, tendon recovery can be delayed.

How does a tendon inflammation of the shoulder occur?

With a tendon inflammation, there is almost always damage due to overuse. Think of repetitive shoulder movements during work or heavy loading during sports. Muscle weakness of the shoulder muscles also increases the risk of damage and thus a tendon inflammation.

The rotator cuff muscle group is most involved in stabilizing and moving the shoulder. Of these four muscles, the supraspinatus is most often overused and therefore more vulnerable to a tendon inflammation.

How can you recognize a tendon inflammation of the shoulder?

The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body. In the shoulder joint, the combination of bones, muscles, and tendons is responsible for this freedom of movement.

A hallmark of a tendon inflammation in the shoulder is that movements above shoulder height are more difficult and feel painful. The painful movement when lifting the arm sideways is referred to as the 'painful arc'. The movement is painful up to about 120 degrees; with further sideways lifting, the pain decreases again.

How is a tendon inflammation of the shoulder diagnosed?

The most important part of diagnosing a tendon inflammation of the shoulder is ruling out other possible conditions, such as a bursitis. A bursitis typically feels more 'dull', while a tendon inflammation feels more 'stabbing'.

A combination of complaints is also possible. Irritation of the supraspinatus tendon can cause it to thicken and compress the nearby bursa.

If in doubt, the GP may choose to order imaging. In most cases, ultrasound is sufficient to diagnose a tendon inflammation of the shoulder. If this is inconclusive, a CT scan or MRI scan is possible.

How is a tendon inflammation of the shoulder treated?

Treatment of a tendon inflammation of the shoulder is often twofold. To suppress the inflammatory symptoms, rest and icing the shoulder are most important. It is recommended to do this in combination with treatment by a physiotherapist. They will devise a rehabilitation program aimed at reducing pain and strengthening the muscles around the shoulder through exercise therapy.