How do You Know When You Have Supraspinatus Tendonitis?

Interestingly enough, supraspinatus tendonitis, which is also commonly known as ‘rotator cuff tendonitis’, is amongst one of the most common forms of tendonitis treated by doctors. While the rotator cuff consists of several tendons, it is the supraspinatus tendon which connects the shoulder blade to the arm bone, and it is also the tendon which tends to the most vulnerable to tendonitis.

What often causes this problem are repetitive movements like the arm movements one makes when playing tennis and some other sports. Some sports can cause supraspinatus tendonitis but there are some sports that will probably cause the problem more than others will. Either way the pain can be abominable.

When it comes to tendonitis that is sports related, tennis players and baseball players are more at risk as well as swimmers, and golfers. Supraspinatus tendonitis does not only develop in people that play sports though, as there are certain jobs that have more chance than others and it is jobs like carpentry, painting, and decorating will cause this condition. Certainly, the condition starts in the shoulder or the arm that is used the most.

How do you know if you have supraspinatus tendonitis?

Usually the condition will begin with pains in the shoulder, but for some people it can spread down the arm and even across the chest area. Any arm movement can lead to a lot of pain. Sufferers will also see that sleeping can be hard because any weight being placed on the arm or shoulder will cause much pain.

If left untreated, the condition will become steadily worse and eventually it will be virtually impossible to move the arm at all without experiencing excruciating pain. Once it reaches this stage, those with the condition will do their utmost to avoid moving their arm, and of course this then results in the shoulder joint becoming increasingly stiff.

As well as having pain and stiffness, you can also experience bruising and noticeable swelling near the immediate area. The shoulder may also look red, and tender to the touch, with internal swelling.

Treatments

If you let the tendonitis get to a late stage, then you must go see a doctor. In many cases, medication such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications will be given in combination with physiotherapy, which you will need to regain movement. If you have a badly damaged tendon, then you may need surgery.

If you play regular support which demands repetitive arm movements, or you’re in an occupation which requires repetitive arm movements, and you begin experiencing a dull aching pain in your shoulder area, don’t be tempted to ignore it in the hope that it will simply go away. Remember, rotator cuff tendonitis can end up being unbearably painful, and as such, you should seek treatment at the earliest possible time.

Tom Nicholson spends his time helping sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome. You can click here to find out more about having asore wrist.