Shoulder pain can disrupt everything from lifting groceries to getting a good night’s sleep. One common culprit is tendonitis in the shoulder, a condition that affects many adults, especially those with active lifestyles or repetitive-motion jobs.
The good news is that physical therapy plays an important role in addressing shoulder tendinitis. To explore this in more detail, the Excel Physical Therapy team is answering some of the most common questions we get about this condition. Let’s dive in!
A Deep Dive into Shoulder Tendonitis: Your Questions Answered
What Is Shoulder Tendonitis and How Does It Feel?
Shoulder tendonitis is the inflammation or irritation of the tendons in the shoulder, most commonly in the rotator cuff or biceps tendon. These tendons are crucial for stabilizing your shoulder and allowing smooth arm movements.
Symptoms of shoulder tendonitis include the following:
- A dull, aching pain in the upper arm or shoulder
- Pain that worsens at night or with activity
- Swelling or tenderness around the shoulder joint
- Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm
The pain often starts mildly but can intensify if left untreated.
What Causes Tendonitis in the Shoulder?
There’s no single cause of tendonitis in shoulder, but it’s usually linked to overuse or injury. People who perform repetitive shoulder movements are especially at risk. Here are some of the contributing factors to watch out for:
- Repetitive overhead activities like swimming, painting, or tennis
- Poor posture or other improper movement patterns
- Muscular imbalances
- Sudden increase in physical activity
- Age-related wear and tear
- Shoulder trauma or injury
How Can Physical Therapy Help Shoulder Tendonitis?
Physical therapy is considered a frontline treatment for shoulder tendonitis. Often, it can resolve the issue without you having to resort to surgery or other more invasive treatment options. And unlike pain medication, which simply masks discomfort, physical therapy addresses the underlying causes and helps restore full function.
We tailor all of our shoulder tendonitis treatment plans to meet your needs, often blending techniques such as:
- Manual therapy to reduce inflammation and improve mobility
- Therapeutic exercises to strengthen shoulder stabilizers
- Postural training to correct body mechanics
- Activity modification guidance to avoid aggravating movements
- Home exercise plans to maintain progress
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Tendonitis in the Shoulder?
Most patients recover within 6 to 8 weeks with consistent physical therapy and proper care. However, the timeline may vary depending on severity, age, and adherence to treatment.
Here are some tips to help facilitate your recovery:
- Avoid overhead movements until cleared by your therapist
- Apply ice after activity to reduce inflammation
- Stick to your prescribed home exercise routine
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
If shoulder pain lasts more than a few days, worsens with activity, or limits your daily function, it’s time to seek professional care. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent chronic damage and shorten your recovery time.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery Today
Shoulder tendonitis doesn’t have to sideline you from the activities you love. With the right care plan and support, full recovery is possible. At Excel Physical Therapy, our licensed physical therapists specialize in treating tendonitis in shoulder with customized, evidence-based programs tailored to your unique needs.
Don’t wait for the pain to get worse! Contact our Oshkosh, WI, and Appleton, WI clinic today to schedule your personalized evaluation. Let us help you move better, feel stronger, and get back to doing what you love.
