Medical Library
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Shoulder Tendonitis and Impingement
Tendonitis is an inflammation of the shoulder tendons. The signs of inflammation are pain, warmth, redness, tenderness to touch, and loss of function. Shoulder tendonitis (often called Rotator Cuff Tendonitis) can occur when the rotator cuff is overloaded, fatigued, traumatized, and with age-related degenerative changes. Pinching or impingement of the rotator cuff tendons occurs in a region under a bony structure called the acromion (the projection of the shoulder blade that forms the tip of the shoulder). Impingement happens when the arm is raised overhead repeatedly, or raised overhead with a heavy load in your hand, or may occur when you sleep on your shoulder. X-rays may show a hook or spur that increases the odds that you will pinch the rotator cuff tendons.
Treatment for impingement or rotator cuff tendonitis usually involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, physical therapy to restore proper strength and movement, and less often, a cortisone injection.
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Possible Treatments
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Active Assistive Range of Motion
Video
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Aerobic/Endurance Exercise
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Core Strengthening
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Cryotherapy or Cold Therapy
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Isometric Exercise
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Plyometrics
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Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)
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Posture Training
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Proprioception Exercises
Video
- Physical Agents
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Shoulder Active Range of Motion
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Shoulder Joint Mobilization
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Shoulder Passive Range of Motion
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Shoulder Resistive Range of Motion
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Soft Tissue Mobilization
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Stretching/Flexibility Exercise
Video
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Active Assistive Range of Motion
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Possible Treatment Goals
- Decrease Risk of Reoccurrence
- Improve Fitness
- Improve Muscle Strength and Power
- Increase Oxygen to Tissues
- Improve Proprioception
- Improve Range of Motion
- Self-care of Symptoms
- Improve Tolerance for Prolonged Activities
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Additional Resources
- 3d Anatomy of the Shoulder
- Shoulder Problems from Medline Plus
- Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder Articles
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The information in this medical library is intended for informational and educational purposes only and in no way should be taken to be the provision or practice of physical therapy, medical, or professional healthcare advice or services. The information should not be considered complete or exhaustive and should not be used for diagnostic or treatment purposes without first consulting with your physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician or other healthcare provider. The owners of this website accept no responsibility for the misuse of information contained within this website.