6 facts to know about rotator cuff tendinitis and how to heal it faster

Did you know that 30% of people experience some form of shoulder pain during their lifetime and 50% experience it at least once a year? If this sounds familiar, your shoulder could be hurting for a number of reasons. However, one common ailment is rotator cuff tendinitis. 

At KC Rehab, our PT team is experienced in helping patients manage shoulder injuries like tendinitis and several other joint conditions. In this article, we'll discuss the key aspects of rotator cuff tendinitis and how to streamline your recovery.

6 fast facts about rotator cuff tendinitis

Your shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint surrounded by a group of muscles and tendons called the rotator cuff. These tissues work together to stabilize your joint, allowing you to rotate your shoulder and lift your arm overhead smoothly and easily. When the tendons in the rotator cuff become swollen or irritated, this condition is known as "tendinitis." This inflammation typically happens gradually, but it can also be the result of a sudden traumatic event.

Rotator cuff tendinitis is a relatively common shoulder injury, but some people are more susceptible to it than others. Here's what you need to know about this condition:

1. You're more likely to get rotator cuff tendinitis as you age.

Research shows that adults age 50 and older are more likely to experience rotator cuff tendinopathy. This is due to natural degenerative joint changes. As you age, your joints typically become less flexible and more prone to injuries.

2. Your health history can be a factor.

While having a traumatic injury on your record can certainly increase your chances of future issues, certain conditions that affect your musculoskeletal system may contribute, as well. For instance, your tendinitis may be associated with conditions like diabetes or arthritis. Also, if you have a family history of rotator cuff injuries or shoulder abnormalities, you may be more prone to experience them yourself.

3. Work-related activities can cause shoulder tendinitis. 

Inherent risk factors aside, rotator cuff tendinitis is typically diagnosed as an overuse injury. Think about what you do at work. Are you lifting heavy boxes up onto shelves? Do you run an assembly line or work at a construction site? Repetitive shoulder movements can stress your joint over time, potentially contributing to tendinitis.

4. Rotator cuff tendinitis is also a common sports injury.

Just like the average worker with a physically demanding job, athletes can also get tendinitis. Shoulder injuries like this are common for athletes in sports where repeated, overhead motions are central to the activity. For instance, this includes swimmers, weight lifters, baseball players, volleyball players and tennis players (among others). 

5. Shoulder pain isn't the only symptom.

Paying attention to your body and knowing when to seek medical care are the keys to recovery. While shoulder pain and a deep aching feeling are common, these aren't the only indicators. Here are some other symptoms of rotator cuff tendinitis:

• Joint stiffness and swelling

• Shoulder popping or cracking sounds

• Red or discolored skin

• Arm weakness

Typically, patients experience symptoms of a rotator cuff injury in stages. At first, you might feel pain or swelling in your shoulder along with a limited range of motion. If the tendon tears partially or completely, your symptoms may worsen. 

6. Treatment methods vary.

Your provider may recommend that you rest your shoulder and limit the activities that can exacerbate this injury. They may also recommend over-the-counter medication and corticosteroid injections to manage pain and inflammation, as well as physical therapy. Surgery is typically recommended by a health care professional if other options haven't alleviated the issue or your rotator cuff is severely damaged. 

How to heal rotator cuff tendinitis quicker

The recovery time for rotator cuff tendinitis ranges from a few weeks to a few months. It all depends on your health and the severity of your shoulder's condition. One of the best things you can do to ensure a smooth, quick recovery is to listen to your provider and follow their recommendations. 

A targeted physical therapy program can also help speed up the process and allow you to regain a normal range of motion. Your physical therapist or sports medicine specialist can recommend shoulder exercises that help increase muscle strength and teach you how to move with proper form at work or at home, so you can reduce the risk of future shoulder injuries.

Book an appointment at KC Rehab for rotator cuff tendinitis PT

We know how shoulder pain can affect your work and personal life. If you're experiencing shoulder pain, consult our team at your local KC Rehab office. Serving the Kansas City area, we take a personalized approach to every case. Along with general PT, we offer sports medicine and worker rehabilitation programs, catering to a wide range of patient needs.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.