Rotator Cuff Tendinitis

Rotator cuff tendonitis is essentially down to one genetics - i.e. certain people are more prone to developing this condition, and those often experience problems in both shoulders, thankfully not usually at the same time.

Rotator cuff tendonitis becomes more common with older age. 1 in 3 people over 70 have some degree of rotator cuff damage, although not everyone becomes symptomatic.

At OneWelbeck, one of our specialist orthopaedic consultants will be able to make a diagnosis of rotator cuff tendonitis by taking your medical history, asking you about your symptoms, doing a physical examination and running some tests.

Tests that may be required include an X-ray, MRI scan and ultrasound. These imaging tests will allow your consultant to see your rotator cuff and shoulder to accurately make a diagnosis of tendonitis and rule out a more severe problem such as a tendon tear.

Once you’ve received a diagnosis your consultant will talk you through your treatment options, which may include:

• Regular physiotherapy to restore strength in the shoulder and ease pain

• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain

• Surgery to remove inflamed tissue and bone spurs

To alleviate pain and reduce swelling at home it can help to rest the joint, apply ice compresses, and use a sling to take pressure off the tendons in your shoulder and restrict movement. Taking over-the-counter painkillers and antinflammatories like paracetamol and ibuprofen will also help to bring down some of the soreness and inflammation.

It’s important to reduce or stop activities that exacerbate the tendonitis but it is important to remain active.