Effective Treatments for Painful Shoulder Tendon Injuries

The muscle has been hurting continuously?

Hello, doctor: I previously strained the muscles connecting both arms to my collarbone.
It hurts when I lift heavy objects or push with my hands.
I'm not sure how to treat it.
Thank you.

QQQ, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/11/17

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Based on your symptoms, it is likely that you have tendinitis, commonly caused by inflammation of the biceps tendon or the rotator cuff tendons.
Treatment options range from reducing work load and rehabilitation to medication.
If you do not improve, please seek further evaluation from an orthopedic specialist at a hospital.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2011/11/17

More Info

Effective treatments for painful shoulder tendon injuries, particularly those involving the rotator cuff or tendons connecting the shoulder to the collarbone, can vary based on the severity of the injury and the specific tendons involved. Here’s a comprehensive overview of potential treatment options and recommendations based on current medical practices.

Initial Management
1. Rest and Activity Modification: The first step in managing shoulder tendon injuries is to rest the affected shoulder. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as lifting heavy objects or overhead movements. This helps reduce inflammation and allows the tendon to heal.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the shoulder for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. It’s important to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to prevent frostbite on the skin.

3. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation. If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, consult with a healthcare provider before starting NSAIDs.

Rehabilitation
4. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured physical therapy program is crucial for recovery. A physical therapist can design a personalized rehabilitation program that includes:
- Strengthening Exercises: Focus on strengthening the rotator cuff and shoulder stabilizing muscles. This can help restore function and prevent future injuries.

- Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching and mobility exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the shoulder joint.

- Manual Therapy: Techniques such as massage or joint mobilization may be used to alleviate pain and improve movement.

5. Ultrasound Therapy: Some physical therapists use therapeutic ultrasound to promote healing and reduce pain. This modality can help increase blood flow to the injured area.

Advanced Treatments
6. Corticosteroid Injections: If pain persists despite conservative treatment, a healthcare provider may recommend corticosteroid injections into the shoulder joint. These injections can provide significant relief from inflammation and pain.

7. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: This is a newer treatment option where a sample of your blood is drawn, processed to concentrate the platelets, and then injected into the injured tendon. PRP has shown promise in promoting healing in tendon injuries.

8. Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments fail and the injury is severe (such as a complete tear of the rotator cuff), surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options can include tendon repair, decompression, or even shoulder replacement in extreme cases.

Lifestyle Modifications
9. Ergonomic Adjustments: If your shoulder pain is related to repetitive activities or poor posture, consider making ergonomic adjustments to your workspace or daily activities. This can help reduce strain on the shoulder.

10. Gradual Return to Activity: Once pain subsides and strength improves, gradually return to normal activities. It’s essential to listen to your body and avoid pushing through pain, as this can lead to re-injury.

Conclusion
In summary, effective treatment for painful shoulder tendon injuries involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, medication, and possibly advanced treatments like injections or surgery. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action tailored to your specific condition. Early intervention and adherence to a rehabilitation program can significantly improve outcomes and restore function to the shoulder. If you experience persistent pain or functional limitations, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation from an orthopedic specialist.

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