Shoulder Tendinitis & Tenosynovitis

Inflammation of a tendon (tendinitis) or the lining of a tendon sheath (tenosynovitis) in the shoulder. The lining secretes a fluid that lubricates the tendon. When the lining or the sheath becomes inflamed, the tendon cannot glide smoothly in its covering.

Body Parts Involved

• Tendons of the shoulder muscles. These muscles include the teres minor, infraspinatus, suprapinatus, subscapularis, deltoid and biceps. These muscles and tendons allow movement of the shoulder and hold the head of the humerus snugly against the glenoid cavity to stabilize the shoulder joint.
• Lining of the tendon sheaths (tough, fibrous tissue covering the tendons).
• Soft tissue in the surrounding area, including blood vessels, nerves, ligaments, periosteum (covering to bone) and connective tissue.

Causes

• Strain from unusual use or overuse of the shoulder.
• Direct blow or injury to muscles and tendons in the shoulder. Tenosynovitis becomes more likely with repeated injury.
• Infection introduced through broken skin at the time of injury or through a surgical incision after injury.

Signs & Symptoms

• Constant pain or pain with motion of the shoulder.
• Limited motion of the shoulder.
• Crepitation (a "crackling" sound when the tendon moves or is touched).
• Redness and tenderness over the injured tendon.

Treatment

Note:- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.

First Aid

Continuing Care

• Use a sling to rest the shoulder.
• Apply heat frequently. Use heat lamps, hot soaks, hot showers, heating pads, or hoot liniments and ointments.
• Take whirlpool treatments, if available.

Medication

• You may use non-prescription drugs such as acetaminophen for minor pain. Your doctor may prescribe:
• Stronger pain relievers. Don't take prescription pain medication longer than 4 to 7 days. Use only as much as you need.
• Injection of the tendon covering with a combination of a long-acting local anesthetic and a non-absorbable corticosteroid such as triamcinolone.

Home Diet

Diagnostic Measures

• Your own observations of symptoms and signs.
• Medical history and physical examination by your doctor.
• X-rays of the shoulder and arm to rule out other Abnormalities.
• Laboratory studies:

Blood and urine studies before surgery.
Tissues examination after surgery.

Prevention Tips

• Engage in a vigorous program of physical conditioning before beginning regular sports participation.
• Warm up adequately before practice or competition.
• Wear protective gear such as shoulder pads, if they are appropriate for your sport.
• Learn proper moves and techniques for your sport.