Coping With Supraspinatus Tendonitis

When a doctor informs a patient that they have supraspinatus tendonitis, or rotator cuff tendonitis, as it’s otherwise known, most people immediately want to know how they can go about having the injury treated. However, while we will certainly take a look at the various treatment options, let’s first take a look at this type of injury in general.

As you no doubt already know, rotator cuff tendonitis gets its name due to the fact that it concerns the shoulder, which is essentially made up half to three different bones (clavicle, scapula, and humerus), and a group to of four muscles – Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres minor, and Subscapularisto.

Of course, each of the muscles in this group has a specific purpose in order to ensure that the ball joint in the shoulder remains secure within the socket. When the supraspinatus tendon gets injured, the condition is diagnosed as being supraspinatus tendonitis, or in layman’s terms, rotator cuff tendonitis.

Although this condition affects people while trying to enjoy playing certain sports like tennis, swimming, rowing, and baseball, it can also develop from several jobs. Additionally old people tend to suffer from this problem as well. Actually, anyone that falls by accident and lands on their shoulder may end up with this condition because of injured tendons.

One thing is for certain, and that is that irrespective of what causes the condition, the resultant pain can be excruciating at the best of times. Of course, if you do participate in a sport, supraspinatus tendonitis will almost always prevent you from playing until such time it’s been effectively treated.

Often, supraspinatus tendonitis can be treated without surgery, but if the tendon is badly hurt, then surgery may be the only answer. Generally, though, the problem can be treated by physiotherapy and medication to rid of pain and to lessen inflammation.

If surgery is not the only choice, then a physiotherapist will concentrate on strengthening the muscles around the hurt one to make up for the one, which has been hurt. This however can cause a lot of pain because you may have been given a corticosteroid injection. As well, if you experience a mild case of supraspinatus tendonitis, you can cure yourself; however it is best to talk to your doctor before attempting treatment and taking medications.

To a great degree, a lot of rest will generally let the shoulder repair itself, and until it feels better, you should not put it under any strain. While you are recuperating, you may find it helpful to use ice packs and heat pads too. Ice will help lessen swelling and heat will help to tighten the muscles. As well, while you need exercise, try not to overdo it.

Bear in mind though that if the injury is causing so much pain that you are reluctant to move your arm, it’s vital for you to go and see a doctor. This is because, by the time the condition has reached this stage, professional help is usually required.

Tom Nicholson spends his time helping carpal tunnel sufferers. Please click here to find out more regarding having asore wrist.